Rian Tubu: A Historical Site of the Punan Dayak People
 |
| The author and other visitors in front of the ancestral graves of the Punan in Rian Tubu. Photo credit: Fardeen. |
MALINAU - dayaktoday.com: The Dayak people are rich in cultural heritage, boasting a multitude of diverse ethnic groups.
The Punan are one of the 405 sub-tribes of the Dayak. Unfortunately, there are still many stereotypes about this group.
Punan: Progress, education, and heritage
One common misconception is that the Punan are still wandering in the jungles of Kalimantan. While there’s some truth to this view, it’s important to note that it reflects the past. Today, the Punan have made significant progress, living in homes with metal roofs and enjoying modern sanitation and household amenities.
Don’t underestimate the Punan! In fact, many Punan people are pursuing higher education in Tarakan. What’s remarkable is that the majority of Punan students are majoring in the sciences and mathematics.
What does this signify? Besides their natural intelligence, the Punan also possess strong spatial and mathematical abilities! So, truly, don’t overlook them!
For the Punan community, Rian Tubu is a must-visit destination. Why? Because this site holds historical significance that narrates their civilization's journey.
When I visited Rian Tubu, my father's hometown, I was overwhelmed with emotion and nostalgia. After a long journey, I arrived at a place that felt incredibly familiar—where my family roots have grown and flourished.
Upon my arrival, I was warmly welcomed by my family.
Rian Tubu: The ancestors' grave
One of our main goals was to visit the graves of our ancestors, a sacred place that preserves our family's history.
As I approached the gravesite, I felt a profound sense of tranquility. There, beneath the lush trees, lay my grandmother’s grave.
Surprisingly, it wasn’t just one but many of my grandmothers who were laid to rest there.
Their names are beautifully engraved on headstones that are hundreds of years old:
- Laub
- Abong Laub
- Tangga Laub
- Lawing Laub
- Lahee Cipi
This graveyard is estimated to be between 200 and 300 years old, a silent witness to our family’s long journey.
Seeing the names of my ancestors filled me with deep pride as their descendant.
The author of this narrative is the eighth generation of a lineage that is both strong and steeped in history.
Standing among the graves of my ancestors, I reflected on their lives and the legacy they left behind. They were resilient individuals who built a foundation for future generations.
Returning home
Visiting this grave isn’t merely a pilgrimage; it’s a moment of introspection about who I am and where I come from. It’s an inner journey that reminds me of the importance of honoring and preserving our family heritage.
We continued sharing stories and memories of our ancestors. Moments like these bind us closer together, reminding us that behind every name and gravestone lies a story and sacrifice that shapes who we are today.
With heartfelt gratitude, I vowed to carry on this legacy. I will always honor our family's name and respect the ancestors who paved the way for our future.
Author: Fardeen.
Editor: Masri Sarreb Putra.