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| Local Wisdom and the Philosophy of Beumai (Farming). Photo credit: Eremespe. |
The Dayak Research Center (DRC) - SEKADAU: Dr. Wilson et al. conducted a study in 2020 on the shifting cultivation system of the Dayak people in West Kalimantan, focusing on the philosophy of beumai (farming) among the Iban Dayak of Sintang Regency.
Introduction
Dr. Wilson, et al., conducted a study in 2020 on the shifting cultivation system of the Dayak people in West Kalimantan. The findings of this research are highly intriguing. Here are the results:
Review of the Research: Local Wisdom and the Philosophy of Beumai (Farming) Among the Iban Dayak of Sintang Regency, West Kalimantan
This research highlights the profound philosophy of beumai (farming) among the Iban Dayak of Sintang Regency, West Kalimantan. Rooted in a deep spiritual and ecological worldview, beumai is more than a means of subsistence—it is the very essence of life.
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The study underscores the fundamental principles that shape this indigenous philosophy: (1) land is perceived as the body or mother, (2) the forest as the breath of life, and (3) water or rivers as the lifeblood of existence. To separate the Iban Dayak from farming is, therefore, to sever them from life itself.
Origins and Spiritual Foundations of Beumai
The philosophy of beumai has been passed down for generations, embodying local wisdom that stems from three main sources: (1) spiritual beliefs, (2) inherited traditions, and (3) survival instincts and agricultural skills. Central to this worldview is the Iban Dayak's belief in Allah Taala, Petara Langit, Sengalang Burong (the celestial ruler), and Puyang Gana (the ruler of the land). Additionally, rice itself is revered as apai indai kami (our mother’s father), possessing semengat (a spirit) just like humans. This belief system reinforces the sacred relationship between the Iban Dayak and their agricultural practices.
Rituals and Sustainable Practices
The research emphasizes that beumai is not merely a technical endeavor but a ritualistic and cultural act infused with meaning. Farming is conducted in accordance with traditional beliefs, ensuring that rituals and taboos are respected.
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The Iban Dayak practice besaup—a system of mutual aid that fosters strong social cohesion. Their farming method follows a rotational system, preventing overexploitation and maintaining soil fertility. Furthermore, traditional tools are carefully preserved and passed down through generations, reinforcing their cultural identity and ecological wisdom.
The process of beumai follows a meticulous sequence. Before clearing land, farmers conduct ritual ceremonies to seek blessings from ancestral spirits and ensure harmony with nature. Once the land is prepared, they follow a planting schedule that aligns with celestial and environmental signs, reflecting their deep knowledge of ecological cycles. The harvesting process also involves ceremonial gratitude, reinforcing the reciprocal relationship between humans and nature.
Challenges and Threats to Local Wisdom
Despite its deep-rooted traditions, the beumai system faces significant threats, particularly due to legal restrictions on land use. The 2019 arrest of six Iban Dayak farmers in Sintang Regency for land clearing through controlled burning highlights the tension between indigenous agricultural practices and state regulations. This legal uncertainty threatens not only the livelihoods of the farmers but also the preservation of their local wisdom.
Environmental challenges further exacerbate the situation. The expansion of palm oil plantations and large-scale logging operations have led to deforestation and the depletion of traditional farming lands. Climate change also poses a threat, altering weather patterns and affecting the predictability of farming cycles. As a result, many younger generations are shifting away from traditional beumai practices in favor of modern agricultural methods, which may not align with the Iban Dayak’s cultural values.
Recommendations for Sustainability
To ensure the survival of beumai and the cultural heritage of the Iban Dayak, the study proposes three key recommendations:
1. Continuation and Adaptation – Dayak Iban farmers should continue practicing beumai while adapting their techniques to align with contemporary environmental and legal frameworks. Community-based conservation programs can help integrate traditional wisdom with modern sustainability practices.
2. Legal Protection – The government and relevant authorities must provide legal certainty and recognition of the Iban Dayak’s right to farm within their traditional context. Policymakers should work collaboratively with indigenous leaders to develop regulations that respect cultural heritage while addressing environmental concerns.
3. Further Research and Documentation – Future researchers are encouraged to explore beumai further, either within the same cultural context or by comparing it with other indigenous agricultural traditions. Creating extensive documentation of rituals, farming techniques, and oral histories will be essential for preserving this knowledge for future generations.
This research provides valuable insights into the enduring philosophy of beumai, demonstrating that it is not merely an economic activity but a way of life deeply intertwined with spirituality, sustainability, and social values. However, the increasing legal and environmental challenges call for urgent attention from policymakers, scholars, and indigenous advocates to ensure the preservation and evolution of this invaluable local wisdom.
As the world seeks sustainable agricultural practices, there is much to learn from the Iban Dayak’s harmonious relationship with nature. By supporting and safeguarding their beumai traditions, we not only protect their cultural heritage but also embrace ecological principles that could benefit global sustainability efforts.
-- Masri Sareb Putra
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