Ngiwal – a small state on the eastern shore of Babeldaob
Ngiwal is one of the sixteen states of Palau, covering some 26 square kilometres on the east side of Babeldaob, with a population of 282 recorded in the 2015 census. Like its neighbours, it faces the reef and the open Pacific, and village life has long been organised around fishing grounds, taro patches and the paths between the coast and the wooded interior. Oral tradition and customary titles remain an important part of community life. Small in size, the state keeps a strong sense of place. Members are invited to share their memories, family stories and photographs of Ngiwal.