Kastom

Kastom is a pidgin word (Bislama/Tok Pisin) used to refer to traditional culture, including religion, economics, art and magic in Melanesia.

The word derives from the Australian English pronunciation of 'custom' but crosses meanings that incorporate: It is consistent in spelling across most of the many variations in pidgin and pisin across the region.

Kastom is mostly not written, only passed down through teachings and stories.

It is concentrated through: The use of the word is slightly different in the different countries and cultures of Melanesia.

Women of the Place: Kastom, Colonialism, and Gender in Vanuatu.