Indonesia (Papua). 2,220,934 (2000 census). The number of
languages listed for Indonesia (Papua) is 271. Of those,
269 are living languages and 2 are second language
without mother-tongue speakers.
Abinomn [bsa]
300 (1999 Clouse and Donohue). Lakes
Plain area, from the mouth of the Baso River
just east of Dabra at the Idenburg River to its
headwaters in the Foya Mountains, Jayapura
Kabupaten, Mamberamo Hulu Kecamatan.
Alternate names: Avinomen, "Baso", Foya,
Foja. Dialects: Close to Warembori.
Classification: Language Isolate
Abun [kgr]
3,000 (1995 SIL). North coast and interior
of central Bird's Head, north and south of
Tamberau ranges. Sorong Kabupaten,
Ayamaru, Sausapor, and Moraid kecamatans.
About 20 villages. Alternate names: Yimbun, A
Nden, Manif, Karon. Dialects: Abun Tat (Karon
Pantai), Abun Ji (Madik), Abun Je.
Classification: West Papuan, Bird's Head,
North-Central Bird's Head, North Bird's Head
Aghu [ahh]
3,000 (1987 SIL). South coast area along
the Digul River west of the Mandobo language,
Merauke Kabupaten, Jair Kecamatan. Alternate names: Djair, Dyair. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Awyu, Aghu
Airoran [air]
1,000 (1998 SIL). North coast area on the
lower Apauwer River. Subu, Motobiak, Isirania
and other villages, Jayapura Kabupaten,
Mamberamo Hilir, and Pantai Barat
kecamatans. Alternate names: Aeroran, Adora,
Iriemkena. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, DaniKwerba, Northern, Kwerba
Ambai [amk]
10,053 (2000 WCD). On Ambai Island in
Cenderawasih Bay, south of Serui Island, along
the south coast of Serui Island from 136.20' to
136.45', Yapen Waropen Kabupaten, Yapen
Selatan, and Yapen Timur kecamatans. 10
villages. Alternate names: Ambai-Menawi.
Dialects: Randawaya, Ambai (Wadapi-Laut),
Manawi. Lexical similarity 77% with Serui-Laut,
71% with Wandamen. Closely related to Ansus,
Woi, Pom, Wabo, Marau, Papuma, Munggui,
Kurudu. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, Central-Western
Anasi [bpo]
2,000 (1993 Doriot). North coast area
along the west bank of the lower Mamberamo
River. Jayapura Kabupaten, Mamberamo Hilir
Kecamatan. Alternate names: Bapu.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink
Bay
Ansus [and]
4,600 (1987 SIL). Miosnum Island and the
south coast of Serui Island, from 135.35' to
135.50', Yapen Waropen Kabupaten, Yapen
Barat Kecamatan, Ansus, Kairawi, Aibondeni,
and Yenusi villages. Dialects: Lexical similarity
82% with Marau Papuma, 77% with
Wandamen. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West
New Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih
Bay, Yapen, Central-Western
Anus [auq]
70 (2000 Wurm). Island off north coast
east of the Tor River, Jayapura Kabupaten,
Bonggo Kecamatan. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic,
Western Oceanic, North New Guinea, SarmiJayapura Bay, Sarmi
Arandai [jbj]
1,000 (1987 SIL). Southern Bird's Head,
east and west of the Wariaga River and around
the Sebyar (Timoforo) River, Manokwari
Kabupaten, Bintuni Kecamatan. Alternate
names: Yaban, Jaban, Dombano, Sebyar.
Dialects: Kemberano (Tomu), Dombano
(Arandai). Related to Kampong Baru.
Kemberano and Dombano appear to have 71%
lexical similarity with each other in preliminary
wordlists; probably 2 separate languages.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, South Bird's
Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar, South Bird's Head,
South Bird's Head Proper, Eastern
Arguni [agf]
150 (2000 Wurm). Northwest coast of
Bomberai Peninsula on an island in the
Maccluer Gulf. Alternate names: Argoeni.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Central MalayoPolynesian, North Bomberai
As [asz]
230 (2000 Wurm). West Bird's Head,
north coast, villages of Asbakin (main center),
Maklaumkarta, and Mega. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 60% with some dialects on Misool
Island. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Raja Ampat
Asmat, Casuarina Coast [asc]
9,000 (1991 SIL). Population includes
5,200 in Matia and 3,400 in Sapan. Casuarina
coast from the Ewta River in the north to the
Kuti River in the south, inland as far as 25 km
from the coast in some places. Merauke
Kabupaten, Pantai Kasuari Kecamatan.
Alternate names: Kaweinag. Dialects: Matia,
Sapan (Safan). Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, AsmatKamoro
Asmat, Central [cns]
7,000 (1972 Roesler TEAM). On the south
coast from the Owap River in the northwest to
the Farec River in the southwest, inland toward
the foothills to 210 kilometers from the coast in
some areas. Merauke Kabupaten, Sawa-Erma,
Agats, Atsy, and Pantai Kasuari kecamatans.
Between the Kamoro and Sawi languages.
Alternate names: Manowee, Jas, Yas.
Dialects: Simai (Simay), Misman, Ajam (Ayam).
North Asmat is the most distinct dialect.
Related to the Sempan language north of the
rivers. Close to Kamoro and Citak.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Asmat, North [nks]
1,000 (1991 SIL). Near the headwaters of
the Paterle Cocq River to the west, to the Unir
River to the east, to the foothills in some
places, Merauke Kabupaten, Sawa-Erma
Kecamatan. Alternate names: Keenok.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Asmat, Yaosakor [asy]
2,000 (1991 SIL). South coast along the
Sirac River, Merauke Kabupaten, Agats, and
Atsy kecamatans. Alternate names: Yaosakor.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Atohwaim [aqm]
1,000 (1987 SIL). South coast on the
Cook and Kronkel rivers, between the Sawi and
Kaygir languages. Merauke Kabupaten, Pantai
Kasuari Kecamatan. Alternate names: Kaugat.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Kayagar
Auye [auu]
350 (1995 SIL). Ethnic population: 350
(2000 Moxness SIL). Central Highlands, Siriwo
River, mountains southeast of Cenderawasih
Bay. Paniai Kabupaten, Napan Kecamatan.
Alternate names: Auwje. Dialects: Related to
Ekari. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Wissel LakesKemandoga, Ekari-Wolani-Moni
Awbono [awh]
100 (1999 SIL). 100%
monolinguals. South of Tokuni on the Modera
River. Kvolyab is on the south coast, northwest
of Korowai. Alternate names: Kvolyab.
Dialects: Not related to Ok, Asmat, AwyuDumut, Momuna, or highland languages like
Dani or Mek. Lexical similarity 55% with
Bayono. Classification: Bayono-Awbono
Awera [awr]
70 (2000 Wurm). Village at the mouth of
the Wapoga River, east side of Cenderawasih
Bay, Yapen Waropen Kabupaten, Waropen
Bawah Kecamatan. Same community with 100
Ansus-speaking people. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, Awera
Awyi [auw]
350 (2000 Wurm). Northeast near Papua
New Guinea border, just south of Jayapura,
Jayapura Kabupaten, Arso Kecamatan.
Alternate names: Awye, Awje, Awji, Nyao,
Njao. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Northern, Border, Taikat
Awyu, Asue [psa]
6,500 (2002 SIL). South coast area,
southwest of Wildeman River and east of
Kampong River, inland from Pirimapun.
Alternate names: Miaro, Pisa, Miaro Awyu.
Dialects: Close to Edera Awyu and South
Awyu. A separate language from Central Awyu
and Jair Awyu. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Awyu
Awyu, Central [awu]
7,500 (2002 Sohn, Myo-sook). South
coast east of Bipim, northwest of Yaqay, west
of Tanamerah, southwest of Boma. Merauke
Kabupaten, Edera, Pantai Kasuari, Kouh,
Mandobo, Asgon, and Kepi kecamatans.
Alternate names: Auyu, Awya, Awju, Ajau,
Avio, Nohon. Dialects: About 9 dialects.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut, Awyu
Awyu, Edera [awy]
3,870 (2002 SIL). Southeast near coast,
north of lower Digul River. Alternate names:
Siagha, Syiagha, Sjiagha, Oser, Yenimu,
Jenimu. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut, Awyu
Awyu, Jair [awv]
2,300 (2002 SIL). Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Awyu-Dumut, Awyu
Awyu, North [yir]
1,500 (1987 SIL). South coast west side of
Digul River, south of Kombai, east of Awyu.
Alternate names: Dyair, Djair, Yair, Awyu, Jair.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut, Awyu
Awyu, South [aws]
9,340 (2002 SIL). Southeast near coast,
north of lower Digul River. Alternate names:
Siagha, Syiagha, Sjiagha, Oser, Yenimu,
Jenimu. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut, Awyu
Bagusa [bqb]
300 (1987 SIL). East of Mamberamo,
Lake Rombebai, north of Kauwera language.
Jayapura Kabupaten, Mamberamo Tengah
Kecamatan. Alternate names: Kapeso,
Suaseso. Dialects: Lexical similarity 64% with
Kwerba. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, DaniKwerba, Northern, Kwerba
Baham [bdw]
1,100 (1987 SIL). West Bomberai
Peninsula east of the Iha language. Fakfak
Kabupaten, Kaimana, Fakfak, and Kokas
kecamatans. Alternate names: Patimuni.
Dialects: Close to Iha. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, West Bomberai, West Bomberai Proper
Barapasi [brp]
2,500 (1995 SIL). East side of
Cenderawasih Bay just east of the Waropen
language, along the Barapasi River and its
tributaries. Yapen Waropen Kabupaten,
Waropen Atas Kecamatan. Alternate names:
Baropasi. Dialects: Sipisi, Marikai. Lexical
similarity 67% with Kofei, 71% with Sauri, 61%
with Tefaro, 64% with Woria. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink Bay
Bauzi [bvz]
1,500 (1991 SIL). 1,350
monolinguals. Around Lake Holmes near the
mid-Mamberamo River, Danau Bira area,
northeast, Kasonoweja north of Kustera.
Jayapura and Yapen Waropen kabupatens,
Mamberamo Tengah and Waropen Atas
kecamatans; Vakiadi, Noiadi, Danau Bira,
Solom, Kustera, Neao, Itaba villages. Alternate
names: Baudi, Bauri, Baudji, Baudzi. Dialects:
Gesda Dae, Neao, Aumenefa. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink Bay
Bayono [byl]
100 (1999 SIL). South of Tokuni on the
Steenboom River. Dialects: Not related to Ok,
Asmat, Awyu-Dumut, Momuna, or highlands
languages like Dani or Mek. Lexical similarity
55% with Awbono. Classification: Bayono Awbono
Bedoanas [bed]
180 (2000 Wurm). Northwest coast,
Bomberai Peninsula, Fakfak Kabupaten, Kokas
Kecamatan. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West
New Guinea, West New Guinea, Bomberai
Berik [bkl]
1,200 (1994 SIL). North coast area along
the mid and upper Tor River, inland from Sarmi.
Jayapura Kabupaten, Tor Atas Kecamatan;
Bora Bora, Waf, Doronta, Beu, Togonfo,
Dangken, Kondirjan, Somanente, Tenwer,
Sewan, Safrontani, and Taminambor villages.
Alternate names: Berrik, Berick, Upper Tor.
Dialects: Lexical similarity 45% with Keder,
13% with Orya. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Northern, Tor, Tor
Betaf [bfe]
500 (2000). North coast area east of
Sarmi, Jayapura Kabupaten, Pantai Timur
Kecamatan. Classification: Unclassified
Biak [bhw]
30,000 (2000 Wurm). Islands of Biak and
Numfor to the north and on numerous small
islands east and west of the Bird's Head,
including Mapia Island. Biak Numfor
Kabupaten. Alternate names: Biak-Numfor,
Noefoor, Mafoor, Mefoor, Nufoor, Mafoorsch,
Myfoorsch, Noefoorsch. Dialects: Ariom, Bo'o,
Dwar, Fairi, Jenures, Korim, Mandusir, Mofu,
Opif, Padoa, Penasifu, Samberi, Sampori
(Mokmer), Sor, Sorendidori, Sundei, Wari,
Wadibu, Sorido, Bosnik, Korido, Warsa, Wardo,
Kamer, Mapia, Mios Num, Rumberpon,
Monoarfu, Vogelkop. Some consider Biak and
Numfor to be two languages. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Biakic
Biga [bhc]
300 (2001 Remijsen). Misool Island, Biga
village. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Raja Ampat
Biritai [bqq]
250 (1988 SIL). Lakes Plain just north of
mid-Rouffaer River, village of Biri. Alternate
names: Ati, Aliki, Biri. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 69% with Obokuitai, 61% with Eritai,
60% with Kwerisa, 69% with Kai.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, East
Bonerif [bnv]
4 (1994 SIL). North coast area on east
side of the upper Tor River, north of Mander
and south of Berik and Kwesten languages,
village of Beneraf. Jayapura Kabupaten, Pantai
Timur Kecamatan. Alternate names: Beneraf.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Tor, Tor Nearly extinct.
Bonggo [bpg]
600 (2000). Northeast coast east of Sarmi
and west of Demta near Betaf; villages of
Taronta, Tarawasi, Armopa. Jayapura
Kabupaten, Bonggo Kecamatan. Alternate
names: Armopa, Bgu, Bogu, Bongo.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, North
New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura Bay, Sarmi
Burate [bti]
100 (2000 Wurm). Near mouth of the
Wapoga River, Yapen Waropen Kabupaten,
Waropen Bawah Kecamatan, 1 village.
Dialects: Lexical similarity 69% with Demisa,
75% with Tunggare. Classification: Geelvink
Bay, East Geelvink Bay
Burmeso [bzu]
250 (1998 Donohue). Burmeso village
and isolated temporary houses along nearby
rivers, mid-Mamberamo River between Trimuris
and Sikari northeast of Danau Bira (Lake
Holmes). Jayapura Kabupaten, Mamberamo
Tengah Kecamatan. Alternate names: Taurap,
Boromeso, Borumesso, Burumeso, Monau,
Monao, Manau. Dialects: Less than 5% lexical
similarity with any other languages.
Classification: Language Isolate
Burumakok [aip]
40 (1994 Kroneman). Lowlands area south
of the main ranges, southeast of Sumo and
Dekai, south of Langda and Bomela,
Jayawijaya Kabupaten, Kurima Kecamatan,
village of Burumakok, south of Sumtanon, east
of Siradala. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Ok, Western Nearly
extinct.
Buruwai [asi]
1,000 (2000). South Bomberai Peninsula
along the southwest part of Kamrau Bay,
Fakfak Kabupaten, Kaimana Kecamatan;
Yarona, Kuna, Esania, Marobia, Guriasa, Tairi,
Hia, and Gaka villages. Alternate names:
Asienara, Asianara, Karufa, Madidwana,
Sabakor. Dialects: Lexical similarity 60% with
Kamberau. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Busami [bsm]
700 (1993 Doriot). South and north coast,
Serui Island near 136', villages of Kamanap,
Masiaroti, Kaonda. Yapen Waropen
Kabupaten, Yapen Barat and Yapen Selatan
kecamatans. Dialects: 3 dialects. Lexical
similarity 71% with Ansus, 63% with SeruiLaut. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, Central-Western
Citak [txt]
8,000 (1985 M. Stringer TEAM). South
coast area, west of the upper Digul River, north
of Awyu, east of Asmat, Senggo, and north, 19
villages. Merauke Kabupaten, Citak-Mitak
Kecamatan. Alternate names: Cicak, Tjitak,
Tjitjak, Kaunak, Asmat Darat. Dialects:
Senggo, Komasma, Bubis, Esaun, Pirabanak,
Vakam, Tiau. Close to Asmat. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Asmat-Kamoro
Citak, Tamnim [tml]
290 (1993 Doriot). Near Senggo, villages
of Tamnim, Epem, Zinak, Wowi. Merauke
Kabupaten, Citak-Mitak Kecamatan. Alternate
names: Tamnim, Asmat Darat. Dialects: May
be linguistically closer to Asmat, but the
speakers want to be called Citak, not Asmat.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Dabe [dbe]
200 (1993). Upper Tor River area, north
coast east of Sarmi, village of Dabe. Jayapura
Kabupaten, Pantai Timur Kecamatan. Alternate
names: Mangambilis. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Northern, Tor, Tor
Damal [uhn]
14,000 (1991 UBS and 2000
Wurm). Central highlands west of the Western
Dani, east of Ekari, southeast of the source of
the Kemandoga River, all around Puncak Jaya,
northern and southern Carstens Mountains,
Paniai Kabupaten, Ilaga and Beoga
kecamatans. Alternate names: Uhunduni,
Amung, Amung Kal, Amungme, Amuy,
Enggipiloe, Hamung, Oehoendoeni. Dialects:
Damal, Amung, Amongme, Enggipilu. Related
to Ekari, Moni, Wolani. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Wissel Lakes-Kemandoga, Uhunduni
Dani, Lower Grand Valley [dni]
20,000 (SIL 1996). Central highlands,
Baliem Grand Valley, and upper gorge.
Dialects: Lower Grand Valley Hitigima (DaniKurima, Kurima), Upper Bele, Lower Bele,
Lower Kimbin (Kibin), Upper Pyramid.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Dani-Kwerba,
Southern, Dani
Dani, Mid
Grand Valley
[dnt]
50,000 (1990 UBS). Baliem Valley.
Alternate names: Tulem, Central Grand Valley
Dani, Baliem Valley Dani. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Dani-Kwerba, Southern, Dani
Dani, Upper
Grand Valley
[dna]
20,000 (1996). Central highlands, Baliem
Grand Valley, and upper gorge. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Dani-Kwerba, Southern, Dani
Dani, Western [dnw]
180,000 (1993 census). Central
highlands, west of Baliem Grand Valley, and
east from upper Kemandoga Valley. Alternate
names: Dani Barat, Ilaga Western Dani, Lani,
Laany, Oeringoep, Timorini. Dialects: Western
Dani of Pyramid, Western Dani of Bokondini.
Many other dialects are not as distinct as those
listed. Lexical similarity 65% with Obokuitai,
60% with Wano. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Southern, Dani
Dao [daz]
250 (1991 SIL). West central highlands,
Paniai Kabupaten, Napan Kecamatan, east of
Cenderawasih Bay along the Dao River.
Alternate names: Maniwo, "X-Ray". Dialects:
Lexical similarity 75% with Auye.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Wissel LakesKemandoga, Ekari-Wolani-Moni
Dem [dem]
1,000 (1987 SIL). Western highlands
along upper Rouffaer River north of Damal,
northeast of Western Dani. Alternate names:
Lem, Ndem. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Dem
Demisa [dei]
400 to 500 (2000 Wurm). First language in
Desawa and Muyere villages along the coast in
Waropen Bawah District and Botawa village in
the interior along the Wonoi River. Reported to
be the lingua franca of most of the eastern side
of Cenderawasih Bay and of seminomadic
people in interior Waropen Bawah. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 69% with Burate, 64% with
Kofei, 60% with Sauri, 65% with Tunggare,
64% with Woria. Classification: Geelvink Bay,
East Geelvink Bay
Demta [dmy]
1,300 (2000). North coast west of
Tanamerah Bay, villages of Demta, Muris
Besar, Muris Kecil, Ambora, Yougafsa.
Alternate names: Muris. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Sentani
Dera [kbv]
1,000 in Indonesia (1987 SIL). Population
total all countries: 1,687. Northeast Papua,
south of Jayapura, near Waris; 13 villages. Also
spoken in Papua New Guinea. Alternate
names: Kamberataro, Mangguar, Dra.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Senagi
Diuwe [diy]
100 (1999 SIL). 12 miles southwest of
Sumo, east of the Catalina River. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Asmat-Kamoro
Doutai [tds]
70 to 100 (2000 Wurm). Ethnic population:
335 (1993 R. Doriot UFM). Lakes Plain area at
Toli-Dou village, west and south of Taiyeve.
Alternate names: Taori-So, Taori, Tolitai.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, East
Dubu [dmu]
110 (2000 Wurm). Border area south of
Jayapura, south of Waris, east of Emumu,
north of Towei languages, villages of Affi,
Dobu, Yambe. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Pauwasi, Western
Duriankere [dbn]
30 (2000 Wurm). On a small island in the
Raja Ampat Islands in the strait between
Salawati Island and the west end of Bird's
Head. Alternate names: Esaro, Sailen,
Duriankari. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
South Bird's Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar, South
Bird's Head, Inanwatan Nearly extinct.
Dusner [dsn]
20 (2000). Around the town of Dusner,
west coast of Cenderawasih Bay, Wandamen
Bay area. Only one village. Alternate names:
Dusnir. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Biakic Nearly extinct.
Duvle [duv]
933 (2000 WCD). Lakes Plain area south
of Van Daalen River and north of Mulia, Paniai.
Eastern dialect along Dagai River, western
dialect along Fedide and Wedi rivers. Alternate
names: Duvele, Wiri, Duvde, Duvre, Duve.
Dialects: Eastern Duvle, Western Duvle.
Closest to Kaiy. Little difference between
dialects. Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes
Plain, Tariku, Duvle
Edopi [dbf]
1,000 (1995 SIL). Around the juncture of
the Tariku (Rouffaer) and Kliki (Fou) rivers.
Alternate names: Elopi, Dou, Doufou, Dosobou,
Turu, Iau, Yau, Foi, Ururi, Urundi.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, Central
Eipomek [eip]
3,000 (1987 SIL). Eastern highlands area,
Eipo River, east of Nalca. Alternate names:
Eipo, T-Valley. Dialects: Lexical similarity 75%
with Una. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Mek, Eastern
Ekari [ekg]
100,000 (1985 Doble). West central
highlands, Paniai. Alternate names: Kapauku,
Ekagi, Mee Mana, Tapiro, Me Mana. Dialects:
Simori, Yabi (Jabi), Mapiya-Kegata, Mee.
Closest to Wolani. Slight dialect difference with
Mapiya-Kegata. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Wissel Lakes-Kemandoga, Ekari-Wolani-Moni
Elseng [mrf]
300 (1991 SIL). Jayapura Kabupaten,
Arso, Abepura, Kemtuk Gresi, Senggi
kecamatans, south of Jayapura, northeast of
the Kaure. Alternate names: "Morwap", Janggu,
Djanggu, Tabu, Sawa. Dialects: Not closely
related to any other language. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Morwap
Emumu [enr]
1,100 (1987 SIL). Border area south of
Jayapura, 11 villages. Alternate names:
Kiamerop, Imimkal. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Pauwasi, Eastern
Eritai [ert]
530 (2000 WCD). West of the Mamberamo
River, Lakes Plain area in low mountains just
south of Danau Bira (Lake Holmes), around the
Kustera airstrip, to the villages of Erai to the
east, Kustera, and Haya to the south. Jayapura
Kabupaten, Mamberamo Tengah and
Mamberamo Hulu kecamatans. Alternate
names: Editode Edai, Erai, Eri, Barua,
Baburiwa, Babiruwa, Babruwa, Babrua, Aliki,
Haya. Dialects: The dialect in Obogwi village is
close, but not the same. Also related to Kaiy,
Doutai, Biritai. Lexical similarity 76% with
Obokuitai, 50% with Sikaritai. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, Tariku, East
Erokwanas [erw]
200 (2000 Wurm). Northwest coast of
Bomberai Peninsula, north of Baham language.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Bomberai
Fayu [fau]
350 (2000 Wurm). West of juncture of
Tariku (Rouffaer) and Kliki (Fou) rivers, west of
the Kirikiri language. Alternate names:
Sehudate. Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes
Plain, Tariku, West
Foau [flh]
232 (1975 SIL). Foa and Mudiay village,
east Lakes Plain area just north of lower
Idenburg River. Alternate names: Doa.
Dialects: Close to Taworta. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, East Lakes Plain
Gresi [grs]
2,500 (1987 SIL). West of Lake Sentani,
southeast of Genyem, in villages of Hawa,
Bring, Tabangkwari, Yansu, Ibub, Sunna,
Klaysu. Alternate names: Gresik, Klesi, Glesi.
Dialects: Lexical similarity 80% with Kemtuik.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Nimboran
Hatam [had]
16,000 (1993 TEAM). Eastern Bird's
Head, northeast of Manikion, south and
southwest of Manokwari. Manokwari
Kabupaten; Warmare, Ransiki, and Oransbari
kecamatans. Alternate names: Hattam, Atam,
Tinam, Miriei, Moi, Adihup, Uran, Borai,
Mansim. Dialects: Moi (Moire), Tinam, Miriei,
Adihup, Uran. Classification: West Papuan,
Hattam
Hupla [hap]
3,000 (1982 WT). Central highlands area
near east side of Baliem gorge. Alternate
names: Soba. Dialects: Close to Lower Grand
Valley Dani. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, DaniKwerba, Southern, Dani
Iau [tmu]
600 (2000 J. Bateman). 500
monolinguals. Ethnic population: 600 or
more. Kabupaten Puncak Jaya, Faui, Lakes
Plain area between Rouffaer and upper Van
Daalen rivers, villages of Barere, Fawi, and
Taiyai. Poi dialect on Rouffaer River, Turu
dialect on Van Daalen River. Alternate names:
Foi, Urundi, Ururi, Yau, Turu, Iaw. Dialects:
Foi, Turu, Iau. Close to Edopi. Distinct from
Turu (Yawa). The varieties listed as dialects
above may be separate languages.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, Central
Iha [ihp]
5,500 (1987 SIL). Bomberai Peninsula, far
west end around Fak Fak and north. Alternate
names: Kapaur. Dialects: Close to Baham.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, West Bomberai,
West Bomberai Proper
Iha Based Pidgin [ihb]
Bomberai Peninsula, far west end around
Fak Fak and north. Classification: Pidgin, Iha
based
Irarutu [irh]
4,000 (1987 SIL). East Bomberai
Peninsula southwest from Arguni Bay north to
Bintuni Bay, 44 villages. Alternate names:
Irahutu, Irutu, Kasira, Arguni Bay, Kaitero.
Dialects: 6 or 7 dialects. Lexical similarity 90%
with Kuri. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, South Halmahera
Iresim [ire]
70 (2000 Wurm). South Cenderawasih
Bay, west of Nabire and around Yamur Lake.
Alternate names: Beduba, Yerisiam.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Iresim
Isirawa [srl]
1,800 (2000 Wurm). Jayapura, north coast,
around Sarmi and to the west, the villages of
Mararena, Kamenawari, Amsira, Siaratesa,
Perkami, Martewar, Arsania, Nisero, Arabais,
Webro, Wari, Nuerawar, and Waim. Alternate
names: Saweri, Saberi, Okwasar. Dialects:
Western Isirawa, Eastern Isirawa. Close to
Kwerba. The dialects are very close.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Dani-Kwerba,
Northern, Isirawa
Itik [itx]
80 (2000 Wurm). North coast east of Tor
River, along upper Biri River. Alternate names:
Ittik, Betef, Ittik-Tor, Borto. Dialects: Ittik, IttikTor. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Northern, Tor, Tor
Iwur [iwo]
1,000 (1987 SIL). Border area in valley of
Iwur River, Ok Iwur, and east to Ok Denom.
Alternate names: Iwoer. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea, Ok,
Lowland
Kaburi [uka]
600 (1986 SIL). Southern Bird's Head,
east of Kemberano and Arandai languages,
north of Kokoda and Fakfak, Manokwari
Kabupaten, Merdei and Inanwatan
kecamatans. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
South Bird's Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar, South
Bird's Head, South Bird's Head Proper,
Western
Kais [kzm]
700 (1993 Doriot). South Bird's Head
area inland along Kais River, 8 villages.
Alternate names: Aiso, Atori, Mintamani,
Kampung Baru. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, South Bird's Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar,
South Bird's Head, South Bird's Head Proper,
Western
Kaiy [tcq]
220 (2000 Wurm). Lakes Plain area
around airstrip of Kaiy on lower Rouffaer River,
villages of Kaiy and Kokou. Alternate names:
Taori-Kaiy, Taori-Kei, Kai, Todi. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 69% with Biritai.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, East
Kalabra [kzz]
3,287 (2000 WCD). West Bird's Head,
south of Madik language, east of Moi. Alternate
names: Beraur. Dialects: Closest to Tehit.
Lexical similarity 60% with Tehit. Classification:
West Papuan, Bird's Head, West Bird's Head
Kamberau [irx]
1,570 (1993 Doriot). Southeast Bomberai
Peninsula around Kamrau Bay, villages of
Ubia-Seramuku, Bahomia, Waho, Wamoma,
Inari, Tanggaromi, Koi, Wamesa, Coa.
Alternate names: Kamrau, Iria. Dialects: Close
to Buruwai. Lexical similarity 60% with
Buruwai. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Kamoro [kgq]
8,000 (1987 SIL). South coast from Etna
Bay to Mukamuga River. Alternate names:
Kamora, Mimika, Lakahia, Nagramadu, Umari,
Mukamuga, Neferipi, Nefarpi, Nafarpi,
Kaokonau, Umar. Dialects: Tarya, Yamur,
Nanesa. 4 other dialects. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Asmat-Kamoro
Kanum, Badi [khd]
10 (1996 Mark Donohue). South coast
border area, east of Merauke, bordering
Southeast Marind on the east: Yanggandur,
Tomer, Tomerau, Sota, Kondo, Onggaya, north
and west of Smarky language. Alternate
names: Enkelembu, Knwne, Kenume. Dialects:
Intelligible to other Kanum variety speakers
only with difficulty. Close to Yei. It has also
been classified as Australian, Pama-Nyungan.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Trans-FlyBulaka River, Trans-Fly, Morehead and Upper
Maro rivers, Tonda Nearly extinct.
Kanum, Ngok [kcd]
150 (1996 Mark Donohue). South coast
border area, east of Merauke, bordering
Southeast Marind on the east: Yanggandur,
Tomer, Tomerau, Sota, Kondo, Onggaya to the
north and west of Smarky language. Alternate
names: Enkelembu, Knwne, Kenume. Dialects:
The Kanum varieties are separate languages,
intelligible to each other's speakers only with
difficulty. Close to Yei. It has also been
classified as Australian, Pama-Nyungan.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Trans-FlyBulaka River, Trans-Fly, Morehead and Upper
Maro rivers, Tonda
Kanum, Smarky [kxq]
80 (1996 Mark Donohue). South coast
border area, east of Merauke, bordering
Southeast Marind on the east: Yanggandur,
Tomer, Tomerau, Sota, Kondo, Onggaya,
bordering Papua New Guinea. Alternate
names: Enkelembu, Knwne, Kenume. Dialects:
Intelligible to other speakers Kanum varieties
only with difficulty. Close to Yei. It has also
been classified as Australian, Pama-Nyungan.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Trans-FlyBulaka River, Trans-Fly, Morehead and Upper
Maro rivers, Tonda
Kanum, Sota [krz]
100 (1996 Mark Donohue). South coast
border area, east of Merauke, bordering
Southeast Marind on the east: Yanggandur,
Tomer, Tomerau, Sota, Kondo, Onggaya, north
and west of Smarky language. Alternate
names: Enkelembu, Knwne, Kenume. Dialects:
Intelligible to other Kanum variety speakers
only with difficulty. Close to Yei. It has also
been classified as Australian, Pama-Nyungan.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Trans-FlyBulaka River, Trans-Fly, Morehead and Upper
Maro rivers, Tonda
Kapori [khp]
30 to 40 (2000 Wurm). Village of Pagai on
north bank of upper Idenburg River. Alternate
names: Kapauri. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Kaure Nearly extinct.
Karas [kgv]
100 (2000 Wurm). Karas Island, off
southwest coast of Bomberai Peninsula,
southeast from Fak Fak. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, West Bomberai, Karas
Karon Dori [kgw]
5,000 (1987 SIL). Central Bird's Head
north of Brat, villages of Pef, Asses, Sunopi,
Siakwa. Alternate names: Maiyach, Meon,
Mari. Dialects: Close to Mai Brat.
Classification: West Papuan, Bird's Head,
North-Central Bird's Head, Central Bird's Head
Kaure [bpp]
450 (1995 SIL). Southwest of Lake
Sentani along Nawa River, in villages of Lereh,
Harna, Wes, Masta, Aurina. Alternate names:
Kaureh. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Kaure, Kaure Proper
Kauwera [xau]
400 (1987 SIL). East of mid-Mamberamo,
north and south of Kasonaweja. Alternate
names: Kauwerawec, Kauwerawetj,
Kaowerawedj, Kawera, Kabera, Koassa,
Tekutameso. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Northern, Kwerba
Kawe [kgb]
600 (2001 Remijsen). West end of
Waigeo Island off west coast of Bird's Head,
Raja Ampat Islands, villages of Salio, Selepele,
Bianci, Menyefun. Dialects: Related to Maya,
Maden, Palamul, Matbat. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Raja Ampat
Kayagar [kyt]
10,000 (1993 WT). South coast near
Pirimapun and Sawi, Merauke area. Alternate
names: Kaygir, Kajagar, Kaygi, Wiyagar.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Kayagar
Kayupulau [kzu]
50 (2000 Wurm). Ethnic population: 573
(1978 SIL). Villages of Kayubatu and
Kayupulau in Jayapura harbor. Alternate
names: Kajupulau. Dialects: Not a dialect of
Tobati (Yotafa). Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western
Oceanic, North New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura
Bay, Jayapura Bay
Keder [kdy]
180 (2000 Wurm). Ethnic population: 600
(1973 SIL). North coast east of Tor River
mouth. Dialects: Lexical similarity 45% with
Berik. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Northern, Tor, Tor
Kehu [khh]
25 (2002 SIL). Area between Auye and
Dao who live in the foothills, and the Wapoga
River. Classification: Unclassified Nearly
extinct.
Kemberano [bzp]
1,500 (1987 SIL). Southern Bird's Head
along the coast, east of Komundan River, south
of Arandai language. Several villages also
northwest Bomberai Peninsula, south from
Kalitami across Bintuni Bay. Alternate names:
Kalitami, Wariagar, Barau, Arandai. Dialects:
Barau, Weriagar. Lexical similarity 85% with
Arandai, 60% with Kokoda. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, South Bird's Head-TimorAlor-Pantar, South Bird's Head, South Bird's
Head Proper, Eastern
Kembra [xkw]
20 (2000 Wurm). Jayawijaya Kabupaten,
Okbibab Kecamatan, east of the Sogber River.
Classification: Unclassified Nearly extinct.
Kemtuik [kmt]
2,500 (1987 SIL). West of Lake Sentani,
villages of Mamdayawang, Meikari, Merem,
Yanim, Braso, Aib, Sabransamon, Mamda,
Sabeyap, Sabeyap Kecil, Sekorup, Aimbe,
Sabron Yaru. East of Gresi language. Alternate
names: Kemtuk, Kamtuk. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 80% between Kemtuik and Gresi.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Nimboran
Ketengban [xte]
9,968 (2000 WCD). Scattered slopes in
eastern highlands area east of Eipomek and
west of Ngalum language near Papua New
Guinea border. Alternate names: Kupel,
Oktengban. Dialects: Okbap, Omban, Bime,
Onya. Lexical similarity 69% with Una.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Mek,
Eastern
Ketum [ktt]
100 (2001 SIL). 99% monolinguals. Arimbit
village, plus some in forest. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 49% with Wambon. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Awyu-Dumut, Unclassified
Kimaama [kig]
3,000 (1987 SIL). Kolopom (Frederik
Hendrik) Island west of southeast Papua.
Ngolar II, village 10 km east of Marauke, is all
Kimaama. Alternate names: Kimaghama,
Kaladdarsch, Teri-Kalwasch. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Kolopom
Kimki [sbt]
350 (1978 UFM). Border area where Sepik
River enters Papua. Alternate names: Aipki,
Kimgi, Sukubatom, Sukubatong. Classification:
Sepik-Ramu, Sepik, Biksi
Kirikiri [kiy]
250 (1982 SIL). Most are
monolingual. West of juncture of the Tariku
(Rouffaer) and Kliki (Fou) rivers, villages at
Dofu Wahuka, Paniai. Alternate names: Kirira.
Dialects: Kirikiri, Faia. Classification: Geelvink
Bay, Lakes Plain, Tariku, West
Kofei [kpi]
100 (2000 Wurm). East side of Geelvink
Bay, recently moved to Sauri-Sirami village.
There may be more living seminomadically in
the interior. Dialects: Lexical similarity 67% with
Barapasi, 64% with Demisa, 76% with Sauri,
63% with Woria. Classification: Geelvink Bay,
East Geelvink Bay
Kokoda [xod]
3,700 (1991 SIL). Bird's Head, south
coast on Maccluer Gulf, east of Inanwatan.
Alternate names: Samalek, Oderago,
Komudago, Nebes, Tarof, Kasuweri. Dialects:
Kasuweri (Komudago), Negri Besar (Negeri
Besar), Tarof. Wurm and Hattori 1981 list
Kasuweri and Tarof as separate languages.
Komudago and Tarof are closest. Lexical
similarity 60% with Kemberano. Kasuweri
lexical similarity 86% with Tarof, Negri Besar
82% with Tarof. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, South Bird's Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar,
South Bird's Head, South Bird's Head Proper,
Central
Kombai [tyn]
4,000 (1991 SIL). South coast area east of
Senggo around Boma. Alternate names:
Komboy. Dialects: Central Kombai, Tayan.
Close to Wambon, Mandobo Atas, Mandobo
Bawah, Wanggom. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Dumut
Komyandaret [kzv]
300 (2000 SIL). East of Korowai and north
of Tsaukambo, Wanggom language areas.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Unclassified
Konda [knd]
500 (1988 SIL). Southwest Bird's Head
along lower Waromge River south of
Teminabuan, villages of Konda and
Teminabuan District. Alternate names: Ogit,
Yabin-Konda, Yabin. Dialects: Lexical similarity
61% with Yahadian. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, South Bird's Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar,
South Bird's Head, Konda-Yahadian
Koneraw [kdw]
200 (2000 Wurm). South coast of
Frederik Hendrik Island. Alternate names:
Konorau. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Mombum
Kopkaka [opk]
400 (2002 SIL). Lowlands area south of
the main ranges, southeast of Sumo and Dekai,
south of Langda and Bomela, Jayawijaya
Kabupaten, Kurima Kecamatan, villages of
Siradala and Burungmakok. Alternate names:
Kopka. Dialects: Marub, Tokuni. Close to
Kwer. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Ok, Western
Korowai [khe]
700 (1998 M. Donohue). South coast
area, north of Boma, east of Senggo. Alternate
names: Kolufaup. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Unclassified
Korowai, North [krg]
100 (1998 M. Donohue). North of Korowai
area, southeast of Siradala, west of Awimbon.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut, Unclassified
Korupun-Sela [kpq]
8,000 (1996 E. Young). Eastern highlands
on upper reaches of Erok River, southwest of
Nalca, east of Yali of Ninia, Jayawijaya District,
Kurima Region. Alternate names: Korapun,
Kimyal of Korupun. Dialects: Korupun (Duram),
Dagi, Sisibna (Gobugdua), Deibula, Sela.
Related to Nalca. Lexical similarity 60% to
Nipsan. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Mek, Western
Kosadle [kiq]
250 (1993 Doriot). Hulu Atas just west of
juncture of Nawa and Idenburg rivers. Alternate
names: Kosare. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Kaure, Kaure Proper
Kowiai [kwh]
600 (2000 SIL). Bomberai Peninsula;
southwest coast at Kaimana and in Kamrau
Bay on several islands, villages of Keroi,
Adijaya, Namatota, Waikala, Kayumerah.
Alternate names: Koiwai, Kaiwai, Kuiwai,
Aiduma, Kayumerah, Kajumerah, Adi,
Namatota, Namatote. Dialects: Keroi, Adijaya,
Namatota, Waikala. Blust says this is Central
Malayo-Polynesian. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Central Malayo-Polynesian, South
Bomberai
Kuri [nbn]
500 (1982 SIL). Southwest Bomberai
Peninsula, along Nabi (Kuri) River west from
Wandamen Bay, 16 villages. Alternate names:
Modan, Nabi. Dialects: Close to Irarutu. Lexical
similarity 90% with Irarutu. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Unclassified
Kurudu [kjr]
2,180 (1993 Doriot). Kurudu Island
between eastern tip of Serui Island and
mainland of Papua to east, villages of Kaipuri,
Poiwai. Dialects: Kaipuri dialect has highest
lexical similarity with Yapen group. Lexical
similarity 71% with Wabo, 46% with Western
Serui. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, East
Kwer [kwr]
100 (1998 M. Donohue). Lowlands area
south of the main ranges, southeast of Sumo
and Dekai, south of Langda and Bomela,
Jayawijaya Kabupaten, Kurima Kecamatan,
village of Kwer. Dialects: Close to Kopkaka.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Ok, Western
Kwerba [kwe]
2,500 (1996 SIL). Upper Tor River area,
northeast, headwaters of Apauwer River inland
from Sarmi east to Berik language, villages of
Aurime, Munukania, Wamariri, Tatsewalem
around Apiaweti. Alternate names: Airmati,
Naibedj, Tekutameso, Armati, Mataweja, Segar
Tor, Serikenam, Koassa. Dialects: Serikenam,
Sasawa, Nogukwabai. Lexical similarity 64%
with Bagusa. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Northern, Kwerba
Kwerba Mamberamo [xwr]
300 (1993 Doriot). East of Mamberamo
River, in the mountains between the villages of
Kwerba, Edifalen, and Marinafalen, south of
Kasonaweja. Alternate names: Nopukw,
Nopuk, Nobuk, Napok, Tatsewalem,
Nogukwabai. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Northern, Kwerba
Kwerisa [kkb]
15 to 50 (2000 Wurm). At village of Kaiy
on lower Rouffaer River. Alternate names:
Taogwe. Dialects: Lexical similarity 60% with
Biritai. Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes
Plain, Tariku, East Nearly extinct.
Kwesten [kwt]
2,000 (1987 SIL). Lower Tor River, north
coast area inland east of Sarmi, villages of
Holmhaven, Mafenter, Arare, Omte. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 40% with Berik.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Tor, Tor
Legenyem [lcc]
250 (2000 Wurm). Raja Ampat Islands,
Waigeo Island in northwest end of main bay
and on south coast, villages of Beo, Lempintol,
and Wawiai. Alternate names: Laganyan.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Raja Ampat
Lepki [lpe]
530 (1991 SIL). Jayawijaya Kabupaten,
Okbibab Kecamatan, on the Sogber River, east
and north of the Ketengban. Classification:
Unclassified
Liki [lio]
100 (1998 M. Donohue). Islands off north
coast of Sarmi, Jayapura Kabupaten, Sarmi
Kecamatan. Alternate names: Moar.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, North
New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura Bay, Sarmi
Maden [xmx]
600 (2001 Remijsen). Raja Ampat
Islands, western Salawati Island. Alternate
names: Sapran, Saparan, Palamul. Dialects:
Kawait. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Raja Ampat
Mai Brat [ayz]
20,000 (1987 SIL). Central Bird's Head
around Ayamaru Lakes, about 40 villages.
Alternate names: Ayamaru, Ajamaru, Brat,
Maibrat, Mey Brat, Atinjo, Majbrat, Maite.
Dialects: Maisawiet, Maiyah, Maimaka, Maite,
Maisefa. Lexical similarity 10% with Tehit,
Mpur, Abun, its closest neighbors.
Classification: West Papuan, Bird's Head,
North-Central Bird's Head, Central Bird's Head
Mairasi [zrs]
3,300 (1996 SIL). Bomberai Peninsula,
southwest coast of neck, east and northeast
from Kaimana, Wasior, Triton Bay. Alternate
names: Faranyao, Kaniran. Dialects:
Northeastern Mairasi. Close to Semimi.
Northeastern Mairasi may be a separate
language. Lexical similarity 69% with Semimi,
61% with Mer. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Mairasi-Tanahmerah, Mairasi
Maklew [mgf]
120. South coast area, east side of
Marianne strait, west of Marind and east of
Yelmek languages. Alternate names: Makleu.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Trans-FlyBulaka River, Bulaka River
Mander [mqr]
20 (1991 SIL). North coast area on the
upper Bu River, a tributary of the Upper Tor
River. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Northern, Tor, Tor Nearly extinct.
Mandobo Atas [aax]
1,000 (2002 SIL). Border area near Fly
River on east side of Digul River between
Tanahmerah and Mindiptanah. Alternate
names: Nub, Dumut, "Kaeti", Kwem,
Mandobbo, Kambon, Wambon. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Awyu-Dumut, Dumut
Mandobo Bawah [bwp]
2,000 (2002 SIL). Border area near Fly
River on east side of Digul River between
Tanahmerah and Mindiptanah, villages of
Getentiri, Anggai, Butiptiri, Subur, Aiwat,
Kaisah. Alternate names: Nub, Dumut, "Kaeti",
Mandobbo, Kambon. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Awyu-Dumut, Dumut
Manem [jet]
400 in Indonesia (1978 SIL). Northeast
border area south of Jayapura, villages of
Wembi, Yeti, Kiba. Alternate names: Yeti, Jeti,
Wembi, Skofro. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Northern, Border, Waris
Manikion [mnx]
12,000 (1987 SIL). East Bird's Head, east
of Meyah, south of Manokwari, about 50
villages. Alternate names: Mantion, Sougb,
Sogh. Dialects: 4 dialects. Classification: East
Bird's Head
Mapia [mpy]
1. Mapia Islands, about 180 miles north
of Manokwari. Alternate names: Mapian.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic,
Remote Oceanic, Micronesian, Micronesian
Proper, Ponapeic-Trukic, Trukic Nearly extinct.
Marau [mvr]
1,700 (1987 SIL). South coast of Serui
Island, 5 villages. Dialects: Warabori (Natabui,
Warembori). Lexical similarity 82% with Pom,
Munggui, Papuma, Ansus. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Yapen, CentralWestern
Maremgi [mrx]
40 (2000 Wurm). North coast inland from
Bonggo language, village of Marengge.
Alternate names: Marengge. Dialects:
Unintelligible to speakers in neighboring
settlements including Bonggo. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Northern, Tor, Tor Nearly
extinct.
Marind [mrz]
7,000 (1987 SIL). South coast around
Merauke, 2 villages. Alternate names:
Southeast Marind, Holifoersch, Tugeri, Gawir.
Dialects: Gawir, Southeast Marind, Tugeri,
Halifoersch. 4 or more dialects. Significant
differences between inland and coastal
dialects, but speakers report intelligibility.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Marind, Marind
Proper
Marind, Bian [bpv]
2,900 (2002 Sohn, Myo-sook). Bian River
area near Merauke, Merauke Kabupaten,
Muting Kecamatan, and Sanayu village on
Maro River. Alternate names: Boven-Mbian,
Bian, Northwest Marind. Dialects: Not
inherently intelligible with Marind.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Marind, Marind
Proper
Masimasi [ism]
200 (1973 SIL). Island off north coast east
of the Tor River mouth, Jayapura Kabupaten,
Pantai Timur Kecamatan. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic,
Western Oceanic, North New Guinea, SarmiJayapura Bay, Sarmi
Massep [mvs]
25 (2000 Wurm). North coast east of
Mamberamo River mouth and west of Sarmi,
near Apauwer River. Alternate names: Masep,
Wotaf, Potafa. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Northern, Massep Nearly
extinct.
Matbat [xmt]
1,250 (2001 Remijsen). Raja Ampat
Islands, Misool Island, Segaf Islands. Alternate
names: Me. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West
New Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih
Bay, Raja Ampat
Mawes [mgk]
693 (1975 SIL). Northeast coast east of
Sarmi near mouth of Wirowai River, villages of
Mawes, Mawesweres, Mawesdai.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Tor, Mawes
Ma'ya [slz]
4,000 (2001 Remijsen). Raja Ampat
Islands, central Waigeo Island and central
Salawati Island. Alternate names: Salawati,
Samate, Sailolof. Dialects: Ma'ya, Banlol,
Batanta Island. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West
New Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih
Bay, Raja Ampat
Mekwei [msf]
1,200 (1987 SIL). West of Lake Sentani,
villages of Maribu, Waibrong, Kendate, Sabron
Dosay. Alternate names: Menggei, Munggai,
Mungge, Demenggong-Waibron-Bano,
Menggwei, Munkei, Mooi, Moi, Waipu.
Dialects: Lexical similarity 60% with Kemtuik.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Nimboran
Meoswar [mvx]
250 (1993 Doriot). Meoswar Island, west
Cenderawasih Bay. Alternate names: War.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Biakic
Mer [mnu]
85 (2000 WCD). Central Bird's Head,
headwaters of Wosimi and Uremo rivers.
Alternate names: Muri, Miere. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 63% with Semimi, 61% with Mairasi.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, MairasiTanahmerah, Mairasi
Meyah [mej]
14,783 (2000 WCD). East Bird's Head,
north coast, west of Manokwari, north of
Hattam language, and scattered locations.
Alternate names: Meax, Meyach, Meah, Mejah,
Mejach, Arfak, Mansibaber. Dialects: Closest
to Manikion. Classification: East Bird's Head,
Meax
Mlap [kja]
300 (2000 Wurm). West of Lake Sentani,
just north of Gresi language. Alternate names:
Kwansu, Kwansu-Bonggrang, KuangsuBonggrang, Kwangsu-Bonggrang. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 60% with Kemtuik.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Nimboran
Moi [mxn]
4,600 (1993 Doriot). Salawati Island,
west Bird's Head around Sorong, 9 villages.
Alternate names: Mosana, Mooi, Mekwei.
Classification: West Papuan, Bird's Head, West
Bird's Head
Molof [msl]
200 (1978 SIL). South of Jayapura, west
of Waris. Alternate names: Ampas. Dialects:
Not closely related to any other language.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Molof
Mombum [mso]
250 (1993 Doriot). Island next to
southeast coast of Fredrik Hendrik Island.
Alternate names: Kemelom, Kemelomsch,
Komolom. Dialects: Closest to Koneraw.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Mombum
Momina [mmb]
200 (1998 M. Donohue). Lowlands just
south of main ranges extending from south of
Silimo east to south of Una language, Samboka
village. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Momuna
Momuna [mqf]
2,000 (2000 Wurm). 2,000
monolinguals. Lowlands just south of main
ranges extending from south of Silimo east to
south of Una language. Alternate names:
Somahai, Somage, Sumohai. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea,
Momuna
Moni [mnz]
20,000 (1991 SIL). Central highlands, 10
to 70 miles northeast of Lake Paniai. Alternate
names: Migani, Djonggunu, Jonggunu.
Dialects: Awembak (Awembiak). Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Wissel Lakes-Kemandoga, EkariWolani-Moni
Mor [mhz]
700 (1987 SIL). Mor Islands in east
Cenderawasih Bay near Nabire. Alternate
names: Austronesian Mor. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Mor
Mor [moq]
20 to 30 (2000 Wurm). Northwest
Bomberai Peninsula, coast of Bintuni Bay.
Alternate names: Mor2. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Mor Nearly extinct.
Moraid [msg]
1,000 (1988 SIL). West Bird's Head, east
of Moi and south of Madik languages, villages
of Sailala, Makbon, Luwelala, Seni.
Classification: West Papuan, Bird's Head, West
Bird's Head
Morori [mok]
50 (1998 M. Donohue). Ethnic
population: 250 (1998 M. Donohue). South
coast border area 20 km east of Merauke, east
of Marind, west of Kanum. Alternate names:
Moraori, Moaraeri, Morari, Marori. Dialects:
Menge dialect remembered as the language of
ceremony, though the last Menge speaker died
in 1997. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Trans-Fly-Bulaka River, Trans-Fly, Moraori
Moskona [mtj]
8,000 (1996 SIL). Southeast Bird's Head,
south of Meyah and west of Manikion. Alternate
names: Sabena, Meninggo, Meningo, Meyah.
Dialects: Lexical similarity 85% with Meyah.
Also related to Manikion. Classification: East
Bird's Head, Meax
Mpur [akc]
7,000 (1993). North coast of Bird's Head,
west of Manokwari, and Kebar Valley. Alternate
names: Kebar, Amberbaken, Ekware,
Dekwambre. Dialects: Sirir, Ajiw.
Classification: West Papuan, Kebar
Munggui [mth]
800 (1982 SIL). North coast of Serui
Island near 135.50', villages of Munggui,
Windesi, Murui, Asei Puramati. Alternate
names: Natabui. Dialects: Lexical similarity
82% with Marau, Papuma. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Yapen, CentralWestern
Murkim [rmh]
Jayawijaya Kabupaten, Kiwirok
Kecamatan, border area around the Mot
airstrip, near the headwaters of the Sepik River.
Classification: Unclassified
Muyu, North [kti]
8,000 (2002 SIL). South coast border area
just north of where Fly River forms border
between Papua, Indonesia, and Papua New
Guinea. Alternate names: Yongom, Yonggom,
Yongkom, North Kati, North Moejoe, Niinati,
Ninatie, Kati-Ninanti, Kataut. Dialects:
Kanggewot, Toemoetoe (Are). Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea, Ok,
Lowland
Muyu, South [kts]
4,000 (2002 SIL). South coast border area
just north of where Fly River forms border
between Papua, Indonesia, and Papua New
Guinea. Alternate names: Yongom, Yonggom,
Yongkom, South Kati, South Moejoe, Digoel,
Digul, Metomka, Kati Metomka, Ok Bari.
Dialects: Metomka. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Ok, Lowland
Nafri [nxx]
1,630 (1975 SIL). Nafri village, southeast
end of Yotafa Bay, Jayapura area.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Sentani, Sentani
Proper
Nakai [nkj]
700 (1999 Mark Donohue). East of the
upper Digul River, Awimbom village in the
center of 5 other villages extending toward Ok
Sibil to the northeast, and a little way to the
southwest toward Iwur. No settlement on the
west side of the Digul River, with a large
unpopulated area between Nakai and
Burumakok. Alternate names: Nagai, Na'i,
Na'ai. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Ok, Mountain
Nalca [nlc]
11,092 (2000 WCD). Eastern highlands
area on north slopes of ranges northeast of
Korupun and southeast of Nipsan. Alternate
names: Hmanggona, Naltje, Naltya, Hmonono,
Kimyal, Kimjal. Dialects: Lexical similarity 59%
with Yale, Kosarek. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Mek, Western
Narau [nxu]
80 to 90 (2000 Wurm). Kecamatan
Kaureh, Jayapura area. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Kaure, Kaure Proper
Nduga [ndx]
10,000 (1985 Mary Owen
CMA). Jayawijaya, Tiom, central highlands,
south of high ranges, south of Western Dani,
north of Asmat. Widely scattered. Alternate
names: Ndugwa, Ndauwa, Dauwa, Dawa,
Pesechem, Pesecham, Pesegem. Dialects:
Sinak Nduga, Hitadipa Nduga. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Dani-Kwerba, Southern, NgalikNduga
Ngalum [szb]
10,000 in Indonesia (1987 SIL).
Population total all countries: 18,000. Valleys of
Ok Sibil, Ok Tsop, and perhaps Ok Bon, border
area in main range north of Muyu (Yongkom)
and Iwur languages, northeast of Nakai. Also
spoken in Papua New Guinea. Alternate
names: Sibil. Dialects: Ngalum, Apmisibil,
Sibil. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Ok, Mountain
Nggem [nbq]
3,000 (1991 SIL). Along the middle
Haflifoeri River, north of Wamena. Dialects:
Close to Walak. Lexical similarity 50% with
Western Dani. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Southern, Dani
Nimboran [nir]
2,000 (1987 SIL). Ethnic population: 3,500
(1987 SIL). North Papua, due west of Lake
Sentani, about 26 villages. Alternate names:
Nambrong. Dialects: Lexical similarity 40%
with Kemtuik. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Nimboran
Ninggerum [nxr]
1,000 in Indonesia. Border area and in
Papua New Guinea between the Ok Birim and
Ok Tedi rivers. Alternate names: Ninggrum,
Ninggirum, Ninggeroem, Kativa, Kasiwa,
Orgwo, Muyu. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Ok, Lowland
Nipsan [nps]
2,500 (1993 Doriot). Jayawijaya, Kurima,
just west of Hmanggona. Alternate names:
Southern Jale, Yale-Nipsan. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 78% with Yale, Kosarek, 59% with
Nalca. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Mek,
Western
Nisa [njs]
500 (1987 SIL). Inland from east side of
Geelvink Bay around Danau Nisa. Alternate
names: Bonefa, Kerema. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink Bay
Obokuitai [afz]
120 (2000 Wurm). Lakes Plain just north
of mid-Rouffaer River, village of Obogwi.
Alternate names: Obogwitai, Ati, Aliki. Dialects:
Related to Doutai, Biritai, Sikaritai. Lexical
similarity 78% with Eritai, 69% with Biritai.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, East
Onin [oni]
500 (2000 Wurm). North and northwest
Bomberai Peninsula. Alternate names: Onim,
Sepa. Dialects: Nikuda, Ogar, Patipi, Sepa.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Central MalayoPolynesian, North Bomberai
Onin Based Pidgin [onx]
Onin Peninsula. Classification: Pidgin,
Onin based
Ormu [orz]
500 (2000 Wurm). North coast area just
west of Jayapura, villages of Ormu Besar and
Ormu Kecil, north of the Cyclops Mountains.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, North
New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura Bay, Jayapura
Bay
Orya [ury]
1,600 (1985 Philip Fields SIL). Population
includes 900 in Unurum-Guay, 100 in
Kecamatan Bonggo, 600 in Kecamatan
Lereh. Kecamatan District, Unurum-Guay,
Kecamatan Bonggo, Kecamatan Lereh in the
villages of Taja, Witi, and Wamho (formerly of
Orya). Alternate names: Uria, Warpok, Warpu,
Oria. Dialects: Barat (West Orya), Timur (East
Orya), Yapsi-Taja. Slight dialect differences.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Tor, Orya
Papasena [pas]
400 (1982 SIL). Lakes Plain area on lower
Idenburg River just east of juncture with
Rouffaer River. Dialects: Lexical similarity 23%
with Sikaritai. Classification: Geelvink Bay,
Lakes Plain, Tariku, East
Papuma [ppm]
600 (1982 SIL). South coast of Serui
Island near 135.50', village of Papuma.
Dialects: Lexical similarity 82% with Munggui,
Marau, Ansus. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West
New Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih
Bay, Yapen, Central-Western
Podena [pdn]
200 (1954 A. C. van der Leeden
ms.). Island off north coast of Biri River,
Jayapura Kabupaten, Bonggo Kecamatan.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, North
New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura Bay, Sarmi
Pom [pmo]
2,000 (1987 SIL). Miosnum Island and
west Serui Island, villages of Pom, Serewen,
Mias Endi. Dialects: Jobi. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Yapen, CentralWestern
Puragi [pru]
700 (1991 SIL). Southwest Bird's Head
along Maccluer Gulf, inland around Matamani
River. Alternate names: Mogao. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, South Bird's Head-TimorAlor-Pantar, South Bird's Head, South Bird's
Head Proper, Western
Rasawa [rac]
200 (1987 SIL). Two villages near the
southern coast of Waropen Bawah District.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Rasawa-Saponi
Riantana [ran]
1,100 (1977 Voegelin and
Voegelin). Frederik Hendrik Island. Alternate
names: Kimaam. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Kolopom
Roon [rnn]
1,100 (1993 Doriot). Roon Island west of
Cenderawasih Bay, north of Wandamen
Peninsula. Alternate names: Ron.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, Central-Western
Samarokena [tmj]
400 (1982 SIL). North coast inland just
east of Apawar River, west of Sarmi, villages of
Karfasia, Samarkena, Maseb, Tamaya.
Alternate names: Samarkena, Karfasia,
Tamaya, Tamaja. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Northern, Samarokena
Saponi [spi]
4 to 5 (2000 Wurm). Botawa village,
interior Waropen Bawah District. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, Rasawa-Saponi
Nearly extinct.
Sauri [srt]
100 (1987 SIL). East side of Cenderawasih
Bay near Waropen language, in Sauri-Sirami
village, near Sirami River. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 71% with Barapasi, 60% with Demisa,
76% with Kofei, 63% with Tefaro.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink
Bay
Sause [sao]
250 (2000 Wurm). Southwest of Sentani,
northwest of Lereh, villages of Ures,
Mubararon, Sause-Bokoko, Witti-Yadow, Lidya,
Puaral. Alternate names: Seuce. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Northern, Tor, Unclassified
Saweru [swr]
300 (1991 SIL). Central Serui Island,
Serui Waropen Kabupaten, Yapen Selatan
Kecamatan, on an island south of Yapen Island
near Serui. Classification: Geelvink Bay, Yawa
Sawi [saw]
3,500 (1993 Doriot). Merauke, Atsy, near
south coastal lowland, between Kronkel and
Ayip rivers and upper Fayit River area, villages
of Kamur, Esebor, Wiagas, Minahai, Comoro.
Alternate names: Sawuy, Aejauroh. Dialects:
Closest to Awyu. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Sawi
Seget [sbg]
1,200 (1988 SIL). West Bird's Head
southwest of Sorong, west and southwest of
Moi language, villages of Walian, Sailolof,
Segum, Seget. Classification: West Papuan,
Bird's Head, West Bird's Head
Sekar [skz]
450 (1977 Voegelin and
Voegelin). Northwest Bomberai Peninsula on
coast and one small island. Alternate names:
Seka. Dialects: Arguni has the highest
percentage of lexical similarity with Sekar.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Central MalayoPolynesian, North Bomberai
Semimi [etz]
1,000 (1991 SIL). Bomberai Peninsula
close to Kaniran, south part of neck extending
west to Triton Bay. Alternate names: Etna Bay,
Wesrau, Muri. Dialects: Lexical similarity 69%
with Mairasi, 63% with Mer. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Mairasi-Tanahmerah, Mairasi
Sempan [xse]
1,000 (1987 SIL). Middle south coast,
between Kokonao and Agats, east of Kamoro
and west of Asmat languages. Alternate
names: Nararapi. Dialects: Close to Kamoro
and Nefarpi. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Central
and South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Asmat-Kamoro
Senggi [snu]
100 (2000 Wurm). Border area south of
Jayapura, villages of Senggi and Tomfor.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Border, Waris
Sentani [set]
30,000 (1996 SIL). Few
monolinguals. Around Lake Sentani, about 30
villages. Also scattered in the rest of Papua and
a few other parts of Indonesia. Alternate
names: Buyaka. Dialects: East Sentani, West
Sentani, Central Sentani. Lexical similarity 30%
with Tabla. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Sentani,
Sentani Proper
Serui-Laut [seu]
1,200 (1987 SIL). South central Serui
Island and Nau Island south of Serui, 5 villages.
Alternate names: Arui. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 82% with Ansus, 77% with Ambai.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, Central-Western
Sikaritai [tty]
800 (1993 Doriot). Lakes Plain area just
north of junction of Idenburg and Rouffaer
rivers, along Mamberamo River, and west 15
miles, south 10 miles, villages of Sikari, Haya,
Iri. Alternate names: Aikwakai, Tori Aikwakai,
Sikari, Ati, Tori, Araikurioko. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 86% with Eritai. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, Tariku, East
Silimo [wul]
5,000 (1987 SIL). 50%
monolinguals. Central highlands south of the
range immediately west of the Baliem River,
Amo, Kiniage valleys. Alternate names: South
Ngalik, Paiyage, Usak, Wulik. Dialects: Lower
Samenage. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, DaniKwerba, Southern, Ngalik-Nduga
Skou [skv]
700 (1999 M. Donohue). North coast
border area east of Jayapura, at the mouth of
the Tami River, villages of Sko-Yambe, SkoMabu, Sko-Sai. Alternate names: Sko, Skouw,
Skow, Sekou, Tumawo, Te Mawo, Sekol,
Sukou. Dialects: Related to Vanimo, Wutung,
Yako. Classification: Sko, Vanimo
Sobei [sob]
1,000 (2000 Wurm). Ethnic population:
1,850 (2000 D. Tryon). North coast area east of
Sarmi, Jayapura Kabupaten, Sarmi
Kecamatan. Alternate names: Biga, Imasi, Liki.
Dialects: Reported to be the same as, or
intelligible with, Liki. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic,
Western Oceanic, North New Guinea, SarmiJayapura Bay, Sarmi
Sowanda [sow]
212 in Indonesia (2002 SIL). Northeast
border area south of Jayapura. Alternate
names: Waina, Wina, Wanya, Wanja, WainaSowanda. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Northern, Border, Waris
Suabo [szp]
1,100 (1987 SIL). South Bird's Head along
Maccluer Gulf, 15 villages. Alternate names:
Suabau, Inanwatan, Mirabo, Iagu. Dialects:
Closest to Duriankere. Classification: TransNew Guinea, South Bird's Head-Timor-AlorPantar, South Bird's Head, Inanwatan
Tabla [tnm]
3,750 (1990 UBS). Jayapura, Demta,
Depapre, 13 villages on north coast east and
west of Tanahmerah Bay. Alternate names:
Tepera, Tanah Merah, Tabi, Tanahmerah 2,
Jakari. Dialects: Yokari, Tepera, YewenaYongsu. Yokari dialect understood by other
dialects at 80% to 95%, others have 95% to
100% intelligibility of each other. Tabla has
30% lexical similarity with Sentani (closest).
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Sentani, Sentani
Proper
Taikat [aos]
500 (2000 Wurm). Northeast border area,
straight south of Jayapura. Alternate names:
Tajkat, Arso. Dialects: Closest to Awyi.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Border, Taikat
Tamagario [tcg]
3,500 (1987 SIL). South coast area
between Gondu and Bapai rivers. Alternate
names: Buru, Tamaraw, Wagow.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Kayagar
Tanahmerah [tcm]
500 (1978 SIL). North Bomberai
Peninsula along the Gondu and Bapai rivers.
Alternate names: Sumeri, Sumerine.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, MairasiTanahmerah, Tanahmerah
Tandia [tni]
2 (1991 SIL). Bird's Head neck area just
south of Wandamen Peninsula along Wohsimi
River. Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Tandia Nearly extinct.
Tangko [tkx]
85 (2000 WCD). Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Central and South New GuineaKutubuan, Central and South New Guinea, Ok
Tarpia [suf]
300 (2000 Wurm). North coast area near
Demta, villages of Tarfia and Kaptiau, Jayapura
Kabupaten, Demta and Bonggo kecamatans.
Alternate names: Kaptiauw, Kapitiauw, Tarfia,
Sufrai. Dialects: Sufrai, Tarpia (Tarfia). Closest
to Bonggo. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western
Oceanic, North New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura
Bay, Sarmi
Tause [tad]
300 (2000 Wurm). Around Deraposi,
southwest of Danau Bira, northeast of Fayu
language, northwest of Edopi language,
western Lakes Plain (Paniai). Alternate names:
Doa, Darha. Dialects: Tause, Weirate, Deirate.
Related to Fayu and Kirikiri. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, Tariku, West
Taworta [tbp]
140 (2000 Wurm). Lakes Plain area on the
south side of the Idenburg River east of
Taiyeve, Jayapura Kabupaten, Mamberamo
Hulu Kecamatan. Alternate names: TawortaAero, Taria, Dabra, Bok. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain, East Lakes Plain
Tefaro [tfo]
100 (1987 SIL). East side of Cenderawasih
Bay, in villages of Tefaro and Demba. Alternate
names: Demba. Dialects: Lexical similarity
61% with Barapasi, 63% with Sauri, 70% with
Tunggare. Classification: Geelvink Bay, East
Geelvink Bay
Tehit [kps]
10,000 (2000 R. Hesse). 500
monolinguals. Southwest Bird's Head,
Kabupaten Sorong, most of Kecamatan
Teminabuan and half of Kecamatan Sawiat,
about 31 villages. Alternate names: Tehid,
Kaibus, Teminabuan, Tahit. Dialects: Tehit Jit,
Mbol Fle, Saifi, Imyan, Sfa Riere, Fkar, Sawiat
Salmeit. Closest to Kalabra. Lexical similarity
60% with Kalabra. Classification: West
Papuan, Bird's Head, West Bird's Head
Tobati [tti]
350 (1998 M. Donohue). Jayapura Bay,
close to Jayapura, villages of Tobati, Enggros,
Entrop, Kota Raja, Tanah Hitam. Alternate
names: Jotafa, Yotafa, Yautefa, Humboldt
Jotafa, Jayapura, Enggros, Tobwadic.
Dialects: Formerly classified as Papuan.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, North
New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura Bay, Jayapura
Bay
Tofanma [tlg]
90 (2000 Wurm). Tofanma village, south of
Jayapura just east of Nawa River. Alternate
names: Tofamna. Dialects: Not closely related
to any other language. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Tofanma
Towei [ttn]
115 (1975 SIL). Border area south of
Jayapura, south of Dubu, west of Emumu
languages, in and around Towe. Alternate
names: Towe. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Pauwasi, Western
Trimuris [tip]
300 (1999 SIL). East bank of the
Mamberamo River between Kauwera and
Bagusa languages, Jayapura Kabupaten,
Mamberamo Tengah Kecamatan. Dialects:
They do not understand Kwerba very well.
Lexical similarity 70% with Kauwera and 60%
with Kwerba. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Northern, Kwerba
Tsakwambo [kvz]
500 (1991 SIL). South coast area on
upper Digul River north of Mandobo language
area. Alternate names: Kotogüt, Tsokwambo.
Dialects: Related to Ederah, Kia, Upper Digul,
Upper Kaeme. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Awyu, Aghu
Tunggare [trt]
500 (1993 Doriot). North central, inland
from Waropen group, west of Mamberamo
River, east Geelvink Bay near Nabire. Alternate
names: Tarunggare, Turunggare. Dialects:
Most closely related to Bauzi. Lexical similarity
70% with Bauzi, 75% with Burate, 65% with
Demisa, 70% with Tefaro, 69% with Woria.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink
Bay
Una [mtg]
4,000 (1991 SIL). Eastern highlands on
south slopes of main ranges east of Sela
Valley, west of Ngalum, Bidabuh, east Weip
Valley, Yay Valley, around Langda, Bomela,
Sumtamon. Alternate names: Goliath, Mt.
Goliath, Oranje-Gebergte, Langda. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 75% with Eipomek, 69% with
Ketengban. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Mek, Eastern
Uruangnirin [urn]
250 (1977 Voegelin and Voegelin). Two
small islands between Karas Island and
mainland of southwest Bomberai Peninsula.
Alternate names: Faur, Tubiruasa.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Central MalayoPolynesian, North Bomberai
Usku [ulf]
20 (2000 Wurm). Usku village, south of
Jayapura, just south of Pauwasi. Dialects: Not
closely related to any other language.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Usku Nearly
extinct.
Wabo [wbb]
1,500 (1987 SIL). North and south coast
of east end of Serui Island, near 136.45' to
136.55', 6 villages. Alternate names: Woriasi,
Nusari. Dialects: Lexical similarity 71% with
Kurudu, 46% with Western Serui.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, East
Waigeo [wgo]
300 (1978 SIL). North central Waigeo
Island off western Bird's Head, Sorong
Kabupaten, Waigeo Selatan Kecamatan,
Warsanbin, Selegop, Waifoi, Go, Kabilol,
Kabare, and Nyandesawai villages. Alternate
names: Ambel, Amber, Amberi, Waigiu.
Dialects: Metnyo, Metsam. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Raja Ampat
Wakde [wkd]
400 (1980 SIL). Wakde Islands off the
north coast just east of the Tor River, Jayapura
Kabupaten, Pantai Timur Kecamatan.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, North
New Guinea, Sarmi-Jayapura Bay, Sarmi
Walak [wlw]
1,500 (1993 Doriot). Villages of Ilugwa,
Wodo, Bugi, Mogonik, Wurigelebut. Alternate
names: Lower Pyramid, Wodo. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Dani-Kwerba, Southern, Dani
Wambon [wms]
3,000 (1987 SIL). South coast area
northeast of Mandobo language area.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Central and
South New Guinea-Kutubuan, Central and
South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut, Dumut
Wandamen [wad]
5,000 (1993 Doriot). Wasior, Manokwari,
west Cenderawasih Bay along Wandamen Bay
extending west to east end of Bintuni Bay.
Alternate names: Wandamen-Windesi,
Windesi, Windessi, Bintuni, Bentuni, Bentoeni,
Wamesa. Dialects: Windesi, Bintuni, Wamesa,
Wasior, Ambumi, Dasener, Aibondeni.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, Central-Western
Wanggom [wng]
875 (2002 SIL). Biwage II village.
Alternate names: Wanggo, Wangom. Dialects:
Close to Wambon, Mandobo Atas, Mandobo
Bawah, Kombai. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Central and South New Guinea-Kutubuan,
Central and South New Guinea, Awyu-Dumut,
Dumut
Wano [wno]
7,000 (2001 Burung). Central highlands
area on upper Rouffaer River basin north of
Damal, northwest of Dem, south of Kirikiri.
Places are Kiagai, Lumo, Weiga, Puduk
(Puluk), Yamo River, Wodegoduk, KendoKendo River, Dukibeci (Lukibesi), Mui River,
Fawi, Nggweri, Dagai, Acodi, Wuduma, Tigit,
Dumo (Lumo), Kirudomo, Puduk,
Mburumuome, Biricare, Mbomban, Yedome
(Yei), Acodi, Wanggiva, Kawaimu, Damuk,
Anevawi, Ambogobak, Tumbwi, Nggibaga,
Nggubugani, Wandini. Partial villages are Iratoi,
Turumo, Fawi. Alternate names: Waano.
Dialects: Close to Western Dani, Nggem,
Walak. Lexical similarity 65% with Western
Dani. Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Main
Section, Central and Western, Dani-Kwerba,
Southern, Wano
Warembori [wsa]
600 (1998 SIL). North coast, mouth of
Mamberamo River and west to Poiwai, villages
of Warembori, Tamakuri, and Bonoi. Alternate
names: Warenbori, Waremboivoro. Dialects:
Close to Yoke. Lexical similarity 33% with Yoke
and 30% with Austronesian. Classification:
Lower Mamberamo
Wares [wai]
200 (1993 Doriot). North coast area inland
from Kwesten language on upper Biri River,
south side, village of Mauswares.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Tor, Tor
Waris [wrs]
1,500 in Indonesia. Northeast Papua
south of Jayapura. Alternate names: Walsa.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, Northern,
Border, Waris
Waritai [wbe]
150 (2000 Wurm). Lakes Plain area
around Taiyeve. Alternate names: Weretai,
Wari. Dialects: Related to Doutai.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, Lakes Plain,
Tariku, East
Warkay-Bipim [bgv]
300 (1993). South coast area bordering
Asmat to east and Sawi to west, lower Eilanden
River, 3 villages. Alternate names: Bipim AsSo, Bipim. Classification: Trans-New Guinea,
Main Section, Central and Western, Marind,
Yaqay
Waropen [wrp]
6,000 (1987 SIL). East Cenderawasih
Bay, south coast of Serui Island. Alternate
names: Wonti, Worpen, Aropen. Dialects:
Waropen Kai, Napan, Mo'or. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Waropen
Wauyai [wuy]
300 (2001 B. Remijsen). Southwest
Waigeo Island, Wauyai village. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Raja Ampat
Woi [wbw]
1,300 (1987 SIL). Miosnum and west
Serui Islands, villages of Wooi and Wainap.
Alternate names: Wo'oi. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 77% with Pom, Marau, Ansus.
Classification: Austronesian, MalayoPolynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern MalayoPolynesian, South Halmahera-West New
Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay,
Yapen, Central-Western
Wolani [wod]
5,000 (1992 UBS). Western central
highlands along Kemandoga and Mbiyandogo
rivers, north of Ekari language 75 miles
northeast of Lake Paniai, north of Wissel Lakes
and northwest of the Moni. Alternate names:
Wodani, Woda, Woda-Mo. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Wissel Lakes-Kemandoga, EkariWolani-Moni
Woria [wor]
5 to 6 (2000 Wurm). Interior Waropen
Bawah, Botawa village. Dialects: Lexical
similarity 64% with Barapasi, 64% with Demisa,
63% with Kofei, 69% with Tunggare.
Classification: Geelvink Bay, East Geelvink
Bay Nearly extinct.
Yafi [wfg]
175 (1975 SIL). Northeast Papua, border
area south of Jayapura near Ampas, villages of
Yaffri, Sungguar, Tainda, Abiu, Tokondo.
Alternate names: Jafi, Yaffi, Wagarindem,
Wargarindem, Jafi Wagarindem. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Pauwasi, Eastern
Yahadian [ner]
500 (1991 SIL). South Bird's Head,
between lower Mintamani River and Sekak
River along Maccluer Gulf. Alternate names:
Nerigo, Jahadian, Yabin Yahadian. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 60% with Konda.
Classification: Trans-New Guinea, South Bird's
Head-Timor-Alor-Pantar, South Bird's Head,
Konda-Yahadian
Yale, Kosarek [kkl]
2,300 (1993 Doriot). Nearly 100% are
monolingual. Ethnic population: 2,300. Eastern
highlands, just east of Yali of Ninia, northwest
of Nipsan, east of Dani, a little north of Yali of
Angguruk. Alternate names: Kosarek, YaleKosarek, Wanam, In-lom. Dialects: Kosarek,
Gilika (Kilika), Tiple. Close to Nipsan, Nalca,
and Gilika. Lexical similarity 78% with Nipsan,
59% with Nalca. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Mek, Western
Yali, Angguruk [yli]
15,000 (1991 UBS). Central highlands area
northwest of Nalca, east of Grand Valley Dani.
Alternate names: Northern Yali, Angguruk,
Yalimo. Dialects: Related to Yali of Ninia and
Yali of Pass Valley. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Dani-Kwerba, Southern, Ngalik-Nduga
Yali, Ninia [nlk]
10,500 (1999 Wilson). Central highlands
area south of Angguruk, east of Soba, west of
Korupun, including Ninia, Holuwon, and Lolat
villages. Several hundred at Elelim,
transmigrated by government in 1989 following
earthquake. More than 50 villages. Alternate
names: Ninia, Yali Selatan, Jaly, Jalè, North
Ngalik, Southern Yali. Dialects: Different from
Yali of Pass Valley, Yali of Angguruk, and
Hupla, but closely related. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Dani-Kwerba, Southern, NgalikNduga
Yali, Pass Valley [yac]
5,000 (1988 SIL). Central highlands, east
of Angguruk and northwest of Naltya,
Jayawijaya, Kurulu, and Kurima. Alternate
names: Western Yali, Pass Valley, Abendago,
Yaly, North Ngalik. Dialects: Pass Valley,
Landikma, Apahapsili. Related to Yali of Ninia
and Yali of Angguruk. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Main Section, Central and
Western, Dani-Kwerba, Southern, NgalikNduga
Yamna [ymn]
250 (1980 SIL). Island off the north coast
east of the Tor River, Jayapura Kabupaten,
Pantai Timur Kecamatan. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic,
Western Oceanic, North New Guinea, SarmiJayapura Bay, Sarmi
Yaqay [jaq]
10,000 (1987 SIL). South coast area north
of Odamun River and along Miwamon River
southeast of Sawuy and Kaygir languages.
Alternate names: Yaqai, Jakai, Sohur, Mapi,
Jaqai. Dialects: Oba-Miwamon, NambiomonMabur, Bapai. Classification: Trans-New
Guinea, Main Section, Central and Western,
Marind, Yaqay
Yarsun [yrs]
200 (1991 SIL). Island off the north coast
east of the Biri River, Jayapura Kabupaten,
Bonggo Kecamatan. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic,
Western Oceanic, North New Guinea, SarmiJayapura Bay, Sarmi
Yaur [jau]
350 (1978 SIL). Lower end of
Cenderawasih Bay, west of Iresim. Alternate
names: Jaur. Classification: Austronesian,
Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern, Eastern
Malayo-Polynesian, South Halmahera-West
New Guinea, West New Guinea, Cenderawasih
Bay, Yaur
Yawa [yva]
6,000 (1987 SIL). Central Serui Island,
Serui Waropen, Serui Selatan, Timur Barat, 8
north coast villages, 2 interior villages, 18 south
coast villages. Alternate names: Yapanani,
Mora, Turu, Mantembu, Yava, Iau. Dialects:
Central Yawa (Mora), West Yawa, South Yawa,
North Yawa, East Yawa. Classification:
Geelvink Bay, Yawa
Yei [jei]
900 (1996 M. Donohue). Ethnic population:
1,100 (1996 M. Donohue). Border area of south
coast, east of Marind along Maro River, 6
villages. Alternate names: Yey, Jei, Je, YeiNan. Dialects: Upper Yei, Lower Yei. The
dialects are inherently intelligible with each
other only with difficulty. Classification: TransNew Guinea, Trans-Fly-Bulaka River, TransFly, Morehead and Upper Maro rivers, Yey
Yelmek [jel]
400 (1978 SIL). South coast area on east
side of Marianne Strait between Kolopom
(Frederik Hendrik) Island and mainland.
Alternate names: Jelmek, Jab, Jabsch, Jelmik.
Dialects: Closest to Maklew. Classification:
Trans-New Guinea, Trans-Fly-Bulaka River,
Bulaka River
Yeretuar [gop]
350 (2000). Lower Cenderawasih Bay,
south of Wandamen language. Alternate
names: Goni, Umar, Umari. Classification:
Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, CentralEastern, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, South
Halmahera-West New Guinea, West New
Guinea, Cenderawasih Bay, Yeretuar
Yetfa [yet]
1,000 in Indonesia (1996). Population total
all countries: 1,200. Jayawijaya Kabupaten,
Okbibab Kecamatan, border area east and
north of the Sogber River, many villages south
of Gunung. Also spoken in Papua New Guinea.
Alternate names: Biksi, Biaksi, Inisine.
Dialects: Yetfa and Biksi are 2 ethnic groups,
speaking the same language. Classification:
Sepik-Ramu, Sepik, Biksi
Yoke [yki]
200 (1998 Donohue). East of Warembori
east of the Mamberamo River, Jayapura
Kabupaten, Mantarbori village. Recently moved
to coastal location from the interior. Alternate
names: Yoki, Yauke, Jauke, Pauwi. Dialects:
Lexical similarity 33% with Warembori.
Classification: Lower Mamberamo
