We do not believe they are true development. The Maisin are not categorically against economic development. They want jobs, but not at the expense of their forest or their way of life. They would rather profit on a small scale, selling tapa cloth and betel nuts, without losing control of their land. We are the rightful owners of the land.
Environmentalists consider the case a crucial one.
Conservationists say timber and plantation companies often use devious methods to obtain rights on tribal lands. But if the Maisin win this case, more tribes might follow their example and take other struggles to court. Papua New Guinea Papua New Guinea, Oceania.