Dayaks' longhouse is a showcase of togetherness

BENTUANG KARIMUN, West Kalimantan (JP): The Dayak, one of the largest ethnic groups in Indonesia, are the indigenous people of Kalimantan.

Longhouses are the most visible characteristics of their community. Each longhouse, locally called rumah betang, may accommodate a whole hamlet of 15 families or more.

The house consists of the terrace (tanju) for drying paddy rice or gathering together, and the middle part (ruai) for general activities. The middle section has chambers for each family member, where the social and private functions of the house are evident.

It is in the house that the Dayaks, who consist of several subethnic groups, learn the meaning of communal togetherness. It is always lively with the laughter and cries of children playing and the chatter of men and women as they braid mats.

In the past when tribal wars were common, longhouses also functioned as a fortress and were built higher so that they could withstand enemies' arrows.

Longhouse occupants love to share whatever they have; if a hunter catches a boar, he will share the meat with others.

A show of sympathy is a must when an occupant dies. Customary laws prohibit mourners from wearing flashy clothing or jewelry.

When the mourning period is over, the occupants will collect foodstuffs for a party. The main menu is usually pork and palm wine. If there are not enough pigs in the house, the men will hunt for boars.

When a dispute arises among the occupants, the problem will be solved according to the customary law.

Dayak people are acclaimed for their friendly, hospitable attitude to outsiders. In traditional ceremonies, all guests are treated honorably. For example, in a party thrown at the end of the mourning period, each guest is shown around the rooms in the longhouse where each family will serve him food and drink. If there is a visitor, it can be assured that all the longhouse occupants will greet the guest.

Although "modern" civilization has made inroads, the Dayak community fiercely maintains its traditional way of life.

This culture of living under the same roof is so deeply established among the Dayak people that it is still exhibited in their way of life in cities such as Pontianak, where they also build longhouses. (Wanachala)