The Australian government has returned four decorated skulls to Indonesia, including skulls of the Asmat people who live in Indonesia's easternmost Papua region.
At a function at the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra last week, Australian Arts Minister Mitch Fifield presented the skulls to the Indonesian ambassador.
Mr Fifield says as part of his government's efforts to combat the illegal trade in cultural property, it is pleased to return the skulls from the Dayan people of Kalimantan and the Papuan Asmats.
The Arts Ministry says the artefacts provide a glimpse into the past when ornamental human skulls were used in traditional rituals.
The Asmat skulls are decorated with seeds and carved sea shell rings, while the Dayak skulls are marked with intricate engravings.
The ambassador says the skulls will be returned to where they originated in Indonesia.
