Ironwood, known locally as *ulin* or Borneo ironwood, has played an indispensable role in shaping the maritime history and infrastructure of Kalimantan, particularly its coastal and riverine communities. This incredibly durable and dense timber has been the foundation of Kalimantan’s maritime culture for centuries, where its strength has been used to build boats, bridges, and stilted houses that have withstood the test of time.

As other modern materials are taking over, Kaltimber reclaims lots of these wood for our decking and flooring production. But these villages are here to stay, and it’s both an amazement and a sadness to see how much wood has been used.

The Maritime Connection: Building with Ironwood

Indonesia in general has a strong boat’s building tradition. Kalimantan's dense river network and proximity to the ocean fostered a reliance on boats for transportation and trade. Traditionally, the people of Kalimantan built boats using *ulin* because of its ability to resist water damage, termites, and weathering. This wood’s resilience allowed local shipbuilders to craft vessels that could navigate harsh sea conditions and turbulent river currents. Both small fishing boats, like the iconic *perahu*, and larger trading vessels were constructed with ironwood, ensuring that they would last for generations.

And when they are not used anymore, we salvage their wood! 

Throughout history, Kalimantan's communities have depended on these boats for fishing, trading, and sustaining coastal and river-based livelihoods. Ironwood made it possible for them to engage in long-distance trade with neighbouring islands and countries. Although modern materials have started to replace ironwood in boat construction, the legacy of these boats remains, and some traditional fishermen still use ironwood boats today. 

Ironwood Bridges: Connecting Communities Across Rivers

Kalimantan’s vast river systems are more than just natural waterways; they are vital transportation routes and lifelines for many inland communities. Ironwood bridges were essential for connecting villages and towns across these rivers, offering durable and reliable infrastructure. Built to withstand years of exposure to the elements, ironwood bridges could survive the constant threat of flooding and heavy tropical rains.

One of the key reasons ironwood was preferred for bridges is its resistance to rotting in wet conditions, a quality vital for structures exposed to water. These bridges enabled economic exchanges and social ties, bringing distant communities closer together and facilitating the movement of goods, ideas, and people.

Stilted Villages: Protection and Tradition

Kalimantan’s stilted villages are another key element of its maritime history where ironwood has played a vital role. Coastal and riverine communities built their houses on stilts using *ulin* to elevate their homes above rising tides and frequent floods. These stilted houses also helped with ventilation, reducing humidity in the home and keeping living spaces cooler. For these reasons, ironwood became an essential material for both stilt construction and housing in the region.

Each time we visit Kalimantan to source ironwood from disused structures—old boats, warehouses, bridges, or even roads—we are reminded of how deeply integrated this wood is in the cultural landscape. What astonishes us most is the sheer amount of timber used to build these villages, yet it pales in comparison to the quantities that were logged and exported, leading to deforestation and environmental degradation.

Deforestation and the Fight for Sustainability

The demand for ironwood beyond Kalimantan’s shores led to large-scale logging, especially during the 20th century when ironwood was exported for use in construction projects worldwide. The overexploitation of Kalimantan's forests contributed to significant environmental damage, with forest depletion endangering ecosystems and biodiversity. As a result, ironwood—once abundant—is now scarce and protected by strict regulations in Indonesia.

However, the story doesn’t end with deforestation. Kaltimber’s mission to salvage ironwood from structures slated for demolition has helped breathe new life into this precious material. By reclaiming timber from old bridges, boats, and other abandoned structures, we are preserving Kalimantan’s cultural and natural heritage while offering sustainable, eco-friendly solutions for modern design projects.

Preserving Maritime Traditions through Reclamation

The reclamation of ironwood not only helps address environmental concerns but also honors the maritime traditions that have long been part of Kalimantan’s history. Every reclaimed piece of ironwood is a link to the past—whether it was once part of a boat that traversed the island’s rivers or a bridge that connected distant communities. Through responsible salvaging, we help continue the story of Kalimantan’s maritime heritage, preserving its rich cultural past for future generations.

As we continue to work with reclaimed ironwood, we ensure that this remarkable timber remains a living part of Kalimantan’s history, providing strength, beauty, and sustainability for years to come.