The Honorable Noah Terteruich Idechong

Sixth Olbiil Era Kelulau

Delegate, State of Ngiwal

Delegate Noah T. Idechong, a newcomer to Palaus political arena, brings to the OEK a wealth of knowledge and experience in marine resource management and administration, and a long list of internationally recognized achievements. Born and raised in Ngiwal, he fished and hunted as a boy while completing his 8th grade education. He attended Palau High School and completed his high school studies as an exchange student at Pine City High in Minnesota in 1971. Earning a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Hawaii Pacific College in Honolulu in 1976. Idechong returned to teach at the Palau High School and care for his ailing father.

Before joining Congress, Delegate Idechong worked to promote wise use and management of Palaus marine resources. He handled various national programs in the Division of Marine Resources to develop mariculture and catch fisheries, train fishermen and manage marine resources, the latter five years as head of that Division. He also worked closely with local fishermen and helped communities and traditional leaders to reactivate the practice of bul in Palaus marine conservation in 1994. He headed community forums and led the drafting and initial implementation of what became the Marine Protection Act of 1994. In 1994 he co-founded the Palau Conservation Society and was its Executive Director from 1995 to 2000. Under his leadership, PCS assisted various communities to formally designate locally managed marine protected areas under the dual protection of bul and legal instruments. His work earned him several international recognitions. In 1995, he was one of six global recipients of the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize for his work with communities. In 1997, he was awarded a $15,000 Pew Fellowship Grant to study and expand marine conservation efforts in Palau. In 2000, he was recognized by TIME Magazine as one of the Heroes for the Planet for his contribution to marine conservation.

In the Sixth Olbiil Era Kelulau, Delegate Idechong Chairs the Committee on Resources and Development, and when not engaged in Congressional duties, he volunteers his free time to help promote awareness and build pride in Palaus well-endowed natural heritage.

Delegate Idechong enjoys being in the water, fishing, snorkeling or just getting his feet wet.