Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and is shared by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. The wood stilt villages in East Kalimantan offer a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life of various indigenous groups, particularly the Dayak people.
Architecture and Design:
Wood stilt villages are built on the banks of rivers or along the coast. The houses are constructed on stilts to protect them from flooding during the rainy season and to create a practical living space in the midst of the dense tropical forests. The materials primarily used for building these houses are wood, bamboo, and palm leaves. The wood is ironwood, or ulin in Indonesian. The stilt design also serves as a way to protect the villagers from wild animals and pests that may be present in the surrounding jungle.
Connection to Nature:
The wood stilt villages are deeply connected to nature and the environment. The Dayak people, who are the primary inhabitants of these villages, have a strong bond with their surroundings and practice sustainable ways of living. They rely on the forest for their livelihood, gathering food, herbs, and building materials. Their spiritual beliefs are closely tied to the natural world, and they often perform rituals and ceremonies to honor nature's spirits.
Communal Living:
These villages usually have a strong sense of community, where extended families or clans live together in a single longhouse. The longhouse is a large, communal dwelling that accommodates multiple families, and each family has its own space within it.
This arrangement fosters close-knit relationships and cooperation among the villagers, as they share resources and work together for the well-being of the community.
Ecotourism:
In recent years, some wood stilt villages have become tourist attractions, especially for those seeking an authentic cultural experience and a connection with nature. Travelers can visit these villages to learn about the Dayak way of life, participate in cultural activities, and explore the stunning natural surroundings.
Cultural Heritage:
Wood stilt villages are essential centers for preserving and passing on the Dayak culture and traditions. They are places where age-old customs, stories, dances, and crafts are taught and celebrated. The villages often have traditional music performances, festivals, and ceremonies that are unique to their specific indigenous group.
Challenges:
Despite the cultural significance of these villages, they face challenges such as modernization and encroachment from outside influences. As modern infrastructure and technology reach these areas, there is a risk of traditional knowledge and practices fading away. Additionally, environmental threats such as plastic pollution, deforestation and illegal logging also pose a danger to the delicate balance between the communities and their natural habitat.
Preserving the wood stilt villages in East Kalimantan requires a delicate balance between maintaining cultural heritage and adapting to modern changes. But as concrete takes over wood walls, we give a new life to the wood already logged. It is essential to appreciate and support the Dayak people's efforts to sustain their traditional way of life and protect their environment for future generations.
