Making sakau is a whole ceremony by itself. A large flat stone called a 'pwohn' is used to pound the roots. Younger men pound the roots rhythmically on the stone - the tapping sound can be heard from far away and signals to the community that a ceremony is being prepared. Then the pulp is wrapped in hibiscus bark and wrung out like a cloth, releasing the grey, muddy-looking liquid.
Sakau is served in a coconut shell cup called a 'ki'. The order in which people receive the cup is very important. The person being honoured - perhaps a chief, an elder, or a special guest - receives it first. Then it is passed in order of respect around the gathering. Each person takes the cup with both hands as a sign of politeness.
Sakau plays an important role in Pohnpeian society. It is drunk at the opening of important meetings, at the welcoming of visitors, at celebrations and at the marking of agreements between families. Sharing sakau means 'we are doing this together and we respect each other'.
Today, sakau ceremonies are still held on Pohnpei, and the traditions around them - who pours, who receives first, how the stone is used - are carefully maintained. Younger generations are taught these customs because they are considered an important part of what makes Pohnpeian culture unique.