Fruit Season in Kalimantan: The Dayak People Embrace Change with Creativity

The Dayak community has begun selling tropical fruits as part of their foray into the creative economy. This vibrant scene was captured at the Sekadau Market in West Kalimantan. Photo credit: Masri Sareb.

 
dayaktoday.com - SEKADAU: In Kalimantan, the tropical fruit season is in full swing. Along major routes such as Sui Ambawang, Simpang Ampar, Batang Tarang, Sanggau, and Sekadau, roadside stalls are brimming with freshly harvested produce. 

Among the offerings, mentawa—a rare and exotic local fruit—steals the spotlight, alongside the ever-popular durian, a perennial favorite.

But this year’s fruit season brings more than just an abundance of harvest. The Dayak people, known for their deep-rooted wisdom, are showcasing their adaptability and ingenuity in meeting modern challenges. 

The Dayak people have moved beyond just selling fresh fruit, immersing themselves fully in the creative economy with innovations that are grabbing attention.

A variety of fruit-based products grace the market

A variety of fruit-based products now grace the market. Mentawa is transformed into unique jams, fermented beverages, and crispy fruit chips, while durian is reimagined as culinary pastes, ice cream, and traditional confections like dodol. 

These products, enhanced with a modern twist, are making their way to digital marketplaces, reaching buyers far beyond Kalimantan, even to international customers.

This adaptation isn’t just about product innovation—it’s also about sharing culture. Dayak motifs adorn packaging, adding a distinctive appeal for buyers. Meanwhile, roadside stalls are decorated with traditional art, turning a simple stop into an authentic cultural experience.

Dayak people’s ability to harness their local resources wisely

The success of these efforts reflects the Dayak people’s ability to harness their local resources wisely. By blending tradition, creativity, and technology, they are creating new opportunities that stand out in today’s competitive markets.

This year’s fruit season isn’t just about a bountiful harvest—it’s a testament to how the Dayak people are rising to the challenges of the modern era. In a rapidly changing world, they’ve proven that cultural identity and economic innovation can go hand in hand, paving the way for a brighter future.

-- Apai Deraman