Apai Janggut: Guardian of the Earth and Dayak Heritage, Witness to the Rise of Dayak Literacy in the 20th Century
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Apai Janggut is seen observing and reading a book that features his profile as one of the prominent Dayak figures. Doc. Yohanes Rj.
🌍 DAYAK TODAY | SINTANG: In Kapuas Hulu, West Borneo, Apai Janggut, born Bandi anak Ragae, stands as a beacon of Dayak resilience and tradition.
As the seventh-generation descendant of Keling and Kumang, his leadership as the tuai rumah (longhouse head) of Sungai Utik is a testament to his dedication to preserving the cultural and environmental heritage of his people.
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Apai Janggut's natural intelligence is above average
Apai Janggut and the people of Sungai Utik are Iban. As is well known, the Dayak community comprises seven major ethnic clusters (stammenras) and 407 sub-tribes. The Iban belong to one of these major clusters, consisting of at least 24 sub-clusters.
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Apai Janggut is an exceptionally intelligent and capable leader, known for his deep understanding of both cultural and environmental matters. His natural wisdom, combined with his advocacy for the environment and leadership within his community, places him above the average in terms of influence and legacy. His efforts to preserve the traditions of the Iban people and protect their ancestral lands have earned him national and international recognition, solidifying his role as a key figure in the Dayak community.
Apai Janggut is a wise leader who advises the Dayak people
Globally recognised for his environmental advocacy, he has received accolades such as the Kalpataru Award, Equator Prize, and Gulbenkian Prize. His name was also inscribed in the book 101 Tokoh Dayak (2015, pages 24–29), marking his pivotal role in safeguarding the Dayak identity.
A photograph immortalises Apai Janggut reading a book featuring his life story—a moment that captures the rise of Dayak literacy in the 21th century. Like the iconic works in 50 Historical Pictures That Might Change the Way You Perceive the Not-So-Recent Past, this image is a profound symbol of cultural awakening and legacy.
By championing the interconnection between environmental stewardship and literacy, Apai Janggut ensures that the heritage of Kapuas Hulu and its Dayak people continues to inspire generations far beyond his time.
Apai Janggut, at 87, is a wise figure who reminds the Dayak people not to sell off or damage their forests, as nature is their mother.
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Apai Janggut: Not here to eat, but to feed
Apai Janggut is profoundly knowledgeable about Iban history and philosophy, embodying the wisdom and values passed down through generations. His deep understanding of Iban traditions allows him to serve as a guiding figure within his community, preserving cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges. Through his words and actions, he demonstrates a leadership style rooted in collective well-being rather than individual ambition. His teachings emphasize the importance of responsibility, generosity, and unity, values that have long been central to Iban society.
One of his key teachings is encapsulated in the saying: "Kitai dituk bukai kak ngegak pemakai, tapi kak merik makai mensia maioh."
This translates to, "We come here (to meetings) not to seek food for ourselves, but to feed many others."
These words capture the essence of selfless leadership, where participation in communal gatherings is not about personal gain but about contributing to the greater good. Apai Janggut sees leadership as a means to uplift others, ensuring that knowledge, resources, and opportunities are shared widely rather than hoarded by a select few.
This philosophy is deeply embedded in Iban traditions, where communal living and mutual aid are fundamental principles. Historically, the longhouse is not just a physical structure but a social institution that fosters cooperation and shared responsibility. Apai Janggut’s teaching reinforces this spirit, reminding people that true leadership lies in service to others.
By prioritizing the needs of the many over individual desires, he strengthens the bonds within the community and upholds the values that have sustained the Iban people for centuries.
His approach to leadership serves as a model for future generations, highlighting the importance of altruism in a rapidly changing world. At a time when individualism often takes precedence, his words stand as a powerful reminder that true success is measured by the well-being of the community. Through his wisdom, Apai Janggut continues to inspire not only the Iban people but also those who seek to build societies based on cooperation, generosity, and shared responsibility.
-- Masri Sareb Putra