Aimeliik

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Aimeliik is one of Palau’s 16 states, located on the southwest part of Babeldaob Island. It covers about 52 square kilometers and had a population of 334 in the 2015 census. The state capital is Mongami, and other villages include Medorm, Imul, Elechui, and Ngmechiangel. Nekken is an important farming area in the state.

A notable feature of Aimeliik is that it hosts Palau’s largest power plant and lies close to the international airport. In Medorm there is a powerful shortwave radio station operated by a religious group with connections to churches in the US and Asia.

Aimeliik is among Palau’s oldest areas, known for its terraces and the traditional bai (men’s meetinghouse) at Malsol’s Tomb. The region has many traditional stone sites, with resources from Ngchemiangel Bay, mangroves, and fish. Surrounding villages are ringed by taro fields, garden plots, and terraced hillsides.

Governance: Aimeliik has its own constitution (1982) and established state government (1983). It elects a governor and a four-year state legislature, and the state elects one member to Palau’s House of Delegates.

Economy and roads: The economy relies on agriculture, with commercial farms, some cattle, and agroforestry. Nekken is a major farming area. Most roads are dirt, but a paved road connects Aimeliik to Koror. The Airai-Aimeliik road follows a coastal ridge with branches to Medorm and Ngchemiangel, linking the villages to other parts of Babeldaob.

Education: Public education is run by the Ministry of Education. Aimeliik Elementary School has served students since 1948; Palau High School in Koror is the main public high school for students from Aimeliik.