Dayaks' longhouse is a showcase of togetherness
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)