In 1932, Muakai from the Zingrur royal family of the Kaviyangan village was collected by the Japanese and accessioned into the Taihoku Imperial University (former name of the National Taiwan University, abbr. NTU) and stood silently in a corner of the Museum of Anthropology. Considering to apply Muakai for the National Treasure, Professor Chia-yu Hu of NTU went back to the village in 2014 and discussed related issues with Muakai’s long-lost family and village members. As a result, a spectacular traditional Paiwan wedding was held at NTU for Muakai in September 2015. Why did it take place? What does it mean to the indigenous community, the university, and the society?
Key Words indigenous culture, artefact repatriation, Taiwan, cultural heritage, Paiwan