This Infographic on the Distribution of the Dayak People is Misleading
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| The misleading infographic. The image was taken from Stvn/YNG's Facebook. |
dayaktoday.com - PONTIANAK: In today’s information age, the concept of "post-truth" is becoming increasingly relevant. This term refers to a situation where objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than emotional appeals and personal beliefs.
In this context, we see a clear example through an infographic that attempts to depict the distribution of the Dayak population, but unfortunately, it has the potential to mislead and create misunderstandings.
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The author feels it is crucial to critique the approach taken by the infographic's creator, especially concerning the methodology used to gather the data.
The Importance of Methodology in Research
The primary focus when analyzing the numbers and distribution of the Dayak population is the methodology employed. A solid and accurate methodology is the foundation of any trustworthy research. A systematic research process includes various steps that must be carefully executed to ensure that the resulting data is both accurate and relevant.
One of the first crucial steps is developing a comprehensive research plan. This plan should involve selecting appropriate field survey techniques, gathering data from reliable sources, and creating suitable statistical analysis strategies. Without these steps, research findings can become unreliable and misleading.
Interdisciplinary research: The power of collaboration
A research team consisting of experts from various disciplines—such as anthropology, demography, linguistics, and Dayak cultural studies—can significantly enhance the understanding of Dayak populations and culture. This collaboration not only enriches perspectives but also results in deeper and more holistic analyses. Each discipline brings its own unique methodologies and approaches, so combining these expertise can lead to a better overall understanding.
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Additionally, researchers should engage directly with members of the Dayak community. This ensures that the data collected reflects their everyday realities. Involving the community creates a two-way dialogue that enriches the research process and fosters greater accuracy.
Comprehensive field surveys
Researchers also need to conduct thorough field surveys in various regions where Dayak communities reside. These surveys should cover demographic, cultural, and linguistic data, along with identifying socio-economic factors that influence their population and distribution. For instance, collecting information about education levels, employment, and access to basic services can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by Dayak communities.
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The data gathered should come from trustworthy and verifiable sources. Conducting direct interviews with Dayak community members, utilizing official government data or statistics, and reviewing historical archives will provide a more complete and accurate picture. Employing triangulation techniques—where data from multiple sources is compared and analyzed—can also reinforce the validity of the research findings.
Careful data analysis
Once the data is collected, the next step is meticulous analysis using appropriate statistical techniques. This includes descriptive analysis to understand the characteristics of the Dayak population, spatial analysis to map their geographical distribution, and regression analysis to identify factors influencing their population and distribution. In this context, it’s vital to choose analytical methods that align with the type of data collected and the research questions being addressed.
The results of this analysis should be validated and verified to ensure their accuracy and legitimacy. This validation process may involve peer review by relevant experts, as well as comparisons with data from independent sources. In this way, we can ensure that the conclusions drawn from the research are both valid and reliable.
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Research results must be clearly and transparently communicated to all stakeholders, including the Dayak community, local governments, and non-governmental organizations. This is essential so that the findings can be effectively used for decision-making and policy development. When research results are presented in an easily understandable manner, it not only aids better decision-making but also empowers communities to take appropriate action.
If the methodology cannot be scientifically justified, it is best to abandon the research. The results may end up being inaccurate or misleading, unless they are intentionally designed to present false data. In this context, the author encourages us all to be critical of the information presented, especially regarding population and demographic data.
Epistemological Errors in the Infographic
The questioned infographic also contains historical inaccuracies. It seems that the creator or the individual commissioning this infographic lacks sufficient historical knowledge and hasn’t reviewed literature mapping the Dayak and their distribution. Dr. Anton Nieuwenhuis’s research (1994) clearly lists the various Dayak tribes and their distributions. It is not just one sub-ethnic group but many spread across East Kalimantan. Therefore, ignoring the presence of Dayak in East Kalimantan indicates that the infographic lacks credible references.
A fundamental error in this infographic pertains to epistemology—specifically, how the classification of who is considered Dayak is determined. What criteria are being used? Is it based on the works of Hogendorph (1757), Mallinckrodt, Ukur (1971), or the Bengkayang Declaration of 2017?
Mistakes in classifying the Dayak will directly affect the reported population numbers and their distribution. This is a critical error that leads to incorrect conclusions, potentially harming the Dayak communities who have been striving for recognition and their rights.
Global Dayak population and current challenges
On a global scale, it is known that the majority of the Dayak population resides in Kalimantan, estimated at around 8 million in 2019. This figure was verified at the First National Congress of the Dayak Intellectuals Association (Ikatan Cendikiawan Dayak Nasional - ICDN) held at Hotel Senyiur in Samarinda on September 21, 2019. However, the infographic appears to overlook the existence of Dayak in East Kalimantan, which is quite naïve. We should ask ourselves: What is the purpose behind this omission?
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The presence of the Dayak community is not confined to Kalimantan alone; it also extends to other regions, including Sarawak in Malaysia. For instance, the Dayak population in Sarawak alone exceeds 1.3 million, with the Iban community alone numbering around 723,000. Their widespread presence underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of the Dayak population as a whole and avoiding dangerous oversimplifications.
Writing accurately and effectively: a responsibility
Finally, the author invites us to consider the importance of writing accurately and effectively. Writing accurately means presenting data and facts that are true and accurately reflect the subject of research. Meanwhile, writing effectively means organizing information in a coherent and systematic manner while considering the readability for the target audience. In creative writing courses, this can be quantified using the Fox Index formula developed by Robert Gunning.
However, it seems that the creator of this infographic did not adhere to any of these principles. They wrote arbitrarily, neglecting accuracy and clarity. This serves as a crucial lesson that beginning with accuracy is a fundamental step in any form of communication, especially when dealing with data and facts.
In a world filled with information, it’s vital for us to critically evaluate the data presented, especially when it concerns rich cultures and populations like the Dayak.
By understanding proper methodologies and basing research on valid and reliable data, we can produce accurate and beneficial information. Well-conducted research will not only provide a clearer picture of the Dayak population but also contribute to the recognition and respect for their rights.
In this way, we all can contribute to efforts aimed at protecting cultural heritage and advocating for the rights of Dayak communities, ensuring they receive their rightful place in the narratives of history and development in Indonesia.
-- Pontius Aquarius