How many tons of palm oil do you harvest in one season?

 

A conversation between Dayak people if they were to meet today. Photo credit? Thomas Tion.

KETAPANG - dayaktoday.com: "How many tons of palm oil do you harvest in one season? What other businesses do you have besides palm oil?"

This could be a conversation between Dayak people if they were to meet today, reflecting the changes in their way of life as they adapt to the modern world. 

These questions are not just about farming or palm oil; they represent how the Dayak people showcase their achievements and identity, especially amid the major transitions happening within their communities.

Palm oil has become a symbol of significant economic change

In this context, palm oil has become a symbol of significant economic change. For many Dayak families in Kalimantan, palm oil is a primary source of income, with many managing or working on palm oil plantations. 

The Dayak people in West Kalimantan transport the harvested palm oil from their plantations to the nearest CPO processing factory. Photo credit: author.

So, asking "How many tons of palm oil do you harvest in one season?" isn't just about agricultural yields; it speaks to their success or challenges within a modern economy.

What other businesses do you have besides palm oil

However, the question "What other businesses do you have besides palm oil?" indicates that while many Dayak people are involved in the palm oil industry, they're also exploring other business opportunities, such as other forms of agriculture, crafts, or even tourism. Some have started small businesses based on their cultural heritage, such as making woven goods, carving wood, or running homestays to introduce Dayak culture to tourists.

This conversation highlights the balance between preserving cultural traditions and adapting to the changing times. 

The Dayak people, who once lived in a traditional and nature-dependent way, are now seeking ways to thrive in a fast-paced, connected world.

This is the reality of the Dayak people today—full of economic, social, and cultural dynamics. Palm oil is just one part of their larger story, a symbol of progress and the ongoing challenges they face.

-- Masri Sareb Putra