BASECAMP

10 April 2026, 17:00 - 22:00

Muman Minggil

a film by Mahardika Yudha and Yonri Revolt
introduction, screening and discussion with Yonri Revolt
hosted by Nancy Jouwe
as part of Black Presence in Utrecht : Papua in the Picture

Come see Muman Minggil (Road to the Ancestors), a unique documentary that focuses on the work of anthropologist Arnold Ap, the museum where he worked, and the music group Mambesak in West Papua in the 1970s and 1980s. This unknown history comes to life thanks to interviews with the surviving members and their radio shows and cassette tapes. We follow the filmmakers in their search for the oral history of this legendary group, which served as a school for the Papuan people while they were suffering under the impact of (neo-)colonialism.  
 
The music and dance group Mambesak from West Papua was founded on August 5, 1978. Their weekly performances at the university museum ensured that the museum was full every Sunday. The music was collected from all over West Papua by anthropologist and curator Arnold Ap, leader of the group. Mambesak was so popular that they were seen as a threat by the Indonesian authorities. Arnold Ap was murdered in 1984; his widow, children, and grandchildren live in the Netherlands.  
This film shows how art was used as a medium for education and activism in Papua in the 1970s and how relevant this is to the current situation in society.  
 
The documentary will be introduced by cultural historian and Basecamp builder Nancy Jouwe. After the screening there will be space a conversation with the filmmaker and discussion with the filmmaker. 
 
This event is open to all and walk-in 
For your participation, we suggest a donation between €5-12 
 
Directed by Mahardika Yudha and Yonri Revolt  
Japyapura, Papua, 2023  
Language: Bahasa Malayu, English subtitles  
Running time: 149 minutes 
 
The film is the result of a collaboration between the Yoikatra Association in Timika and the Cenderawasih University Cultural Museum in Jayapura. 