Dubu in Indonesia

The Dubu have only been reported in Indonesia
Population
Main Language
Dialect
Largest Religion
Christian
Evangelical
Progress
Progress Gauge

Introduction / History

The Dubu people live in Papua Province, Indonesia, primarily in Keerom Regency near the border area south of Arso town. Their villages are located northeast of the Idenburg River, in places such as Dubu, Jembatan Web, and Affi.

Historically, the Dubu have been an indigenous group with deep roots in the rugged and forested terrain of Papua. Their isolation has preserved traditional customs and language, while outside influence has been minimal until recent decades.


What Are Their Lives Like?

The Dubu live in small, scattered villages surrounded by dense rainforest. Their homes are typically built from local materials such as wood and palm leaves. Daily life revolves around subsistence farming, hunting, and gathering. They cultivate crops like sweet potatoes, taro, and sago, and supplement their diet with fish and wild game. Travel is difficult, often requiring long treks through jungle or canoe journeys along rivers. Access to healthcare and education is extremely limited, and most families rely on traditional knowledge for survival.


What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Dubu people identify as Christian, with a significant portion affiliated with mainline denominations. However, only a small percentage are evangelical believers. Many individuals lack a clear understanding of biblical faith, and traditional animistic practices may still influence spiritual life. There is a strong need for teaching that emphasizes the gospel and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.


What Are Their Needs?

The Dubu face both physical and spiritual challenges. Isolation limits access to clean water, healthcare, and education. Economic opportunities are scarce, leaving families dependent on subsistence living. Spiritually, while Christianity is present, there is a need for discipleship, leadership training, and resources that encourage genuine faith and counter syncretism.


Prayer Items

Pray for mature, Bible-believing leaders to rise up among the Dubu people.
Ask God to strengthen existing churches and bring spiritual renewal.
Pray for improved access to education and healthcare in remote villages.
Intercede for discipleship resources that clearly communicate God's Word.
Pray for hearts to be open to the gospel and for a hunger for truth among the Dubu.


Scripture Prayers for the Dubu in Indonesia.


References

References


Profile Source:   Joshua Project  

People Name General Dubu
People Name in Country Dubu
Alternate Names
Population this Country 300
Population all Countries 300
Total Countries 1
Indigenous Yes
Progress Scale Progress Gauge
Unreached No
Frontier No
GSEC 6  (per PeopleGroups.org)
Pioneer Workers Needed
PeopleID3 11627
ROP3 Code 102743
Country Indonesia
Region Asia, Southeast
Continent Asia
10/40 Window Yes
National Bible Society Website
Persecution Rank Not ranked
Location in Country Papua Province, Keerom regency, border area south of Arso town, northeast of Idenburg river, Dubu, Jembatan Web, and Affi villages.   Source:  Ethnologue 2016
Country Indonesia
Region Asia, Southeast
Continent Asia
10/40 Window Yes
National Bible Society Website
Persecution Rank Not ranked
Location in Country Papua Province, Keerom regency, border area south of Arso town, northeast of Idenburg river, Dubu, Jembatan Web, and Affi villages..   Source:  Ethnologue 2016

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Ethnolinguistic map or other map

Primary Religion: Christianity
Major Religion Estimated Percent
Buddhism
0.00 %
Christianity
67.00 %
Ethnic Religions
33.00 %
Hinduism
0.00 %
Islam
0.00 %
Non-Religious
0.00 %
Other / Small
0.00 %
Unknown
0.00 %
Primary Language Tebi (300 speakers)
Language Code dmu   Ethnologue Listing
Primary Dialect Dubu
Dialect Code 9425   Global Recordings Listing
Written / Published Unknown
Total Languages 1
Primary Language Tebi (300 speakers)
Language Code dmu   Ethnologue Listing
Primary Dialect Dubu
Dialect Code 9425   Global Recordings Listing
Total Languages 1
People Groups Speaking Tebi

Primary Language:  Tebi

Bible Translation Status:  Translation Started

Resource Type Resource Name Source
None reported  
Profile Source Joshua Project 
Data Sources Data is compiled from various sources. Learn more.