Oevaang Oeray: First Dayak Governor of West Kalimantan

Oevaang Oeray. Source: Reproduction from the book 101 Tokoh Dayak Volume 1.

PONTIANAK - dayaktoday.com: Oevaang Oeray was the first Dayak governor of West Kalimantan (1960–1966). However, he was the second Dayak governor in Indonesia, as the first was Tjilik Riwut (1958–1967). Chrisostomus Oevaang Oeray, was born on August 18, 1922, in Kedamin, Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan. 

Oevaang's early education took place at a Catholic mission school in Nyarumkop, Singkawang. From the beginning, Oevaang was deeply connected to the Catholic Mission, which influenced his later role as a steadfast advocate for the Dayak people. His dedication to both his faith and culture shaped his efforts to uplift the Dayak community and strengthen the Catholic Church’s presence in the region.

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Oevaang Oerai's formative years in the mission school helped mold him into a figure who would dedicate his life to fighting for the rights and dignity of his people. He understood that education and faith were powerful tools for empowerment. 

He was not just a product of the Catholic Mission but someone who saw its potential for instilling a sense of purpose and identity among the Dayak people. His dedication to this cause would later be evident in his political journey, which was driven by the desire to secure better opportunities for the Dayak, to challenge the traditional power structures, and to assert the importance of Dayak identity in the wider social and political landscape.

One of his most notable efforts came during a retreat for Dayak teachers in Sanggau. During this retreat, Oevaang sent an "agitational" letter, urging the gathered teachers to become agents of change—what sociologist Mills would describe as "elite power." 

He called on them to actively engage in transforming their community and society, urging them to break free from the status quo and to take responsibility for creating change. This call to action had a profound effect, galvanizing a movement that would eventually lead to the establishment of Daya in Action (DIA), an organization dedicated to promoting Dayak political and social rights. 

The formation of DIA marked a significant turning point for the Dayak people, as it laid the groundwork for the creation of the Partai Persatuan Daya (PPD) on October 30, 1945. This political party would later become a central vehicle for Dayak political expression.

Oevaang’s leadership in the political sphere

Oevaang’s leadership in the political sphere was driven by his belief that politics was the key to achieving recognition and securing the rights of the Dayak people. He knew that political participation would give the Dayak a voice in the decisions that affected their lives. His involvement in politics was not just about seeking personal power but about ensuring that the Dayak voice would be heard at the highest levels of government. His persistence and strategic vision earned him a position of influence, culminating in his appointment as the Head of the Regional Government (Swatantra Tk. 1) on June 22, 1956. Oevaang’s appointment was a clear signal of his success in using politics as a tool for advancing the interests of the Dayak people.

In 1960, Oevaang Oerai was elected as the Governor of West Kalimantan (KDH Tk. I), a position he would hold until 1966. His tenure as governor was a historic moment for the Dayak people, as Oevaang became the first Dayak to hold the position of governor in West Kalimantan. This achievement was not only a personal victory for Oevaang but a triumph for the Dayak people, who had long been marginalized and excluded from the highest echelons of political power. 

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Oevaang’s leadership was characterized by his focus on improving the welfare of the Dayak people, promoting their culture, and ensuring their inclusion in the political process. His time as governor marked a period of relative progress for the Dayak, as Oevaang pushed for policies that aimed to uplift the community and secure its place within the larger socio-political fabric of the province.

Oevaang's political journey

However, Oevaang's political journey took a sudden and unexpected turn in 1966. On July 12 of that year, Oevaang Oerai was dismissed from his position as Governor of West Kalimantan by Basuki Rachmat, the Minister of Home Affairs at the time. The dismissal was part of a larger political shift orchestrated by the central government, as it sought to consolidate power in the wake of the 1965 coup attempt and the subsequent rise of the New Order regime. Prior to this, the DPRD GR Kalbar, in a session held on July 18, 1966, nominated two new candidates for the governorship: Col. CHK Soemadi BCHK and F.C. Palaunsoeka, both of whom were political rivals of Oevaang. This move to replace Oevaang was part of a broader strategy by Jakarta to exert control over regional politics and ensure the loyalty of local leaders.

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After the dissolution of the PPD by President Soekarno, the Dayak people were left without a political vehicle to represent their interests. Many Dayak politicians, including Oevaang, dispersed and joined other political parties. Oevaang, ever the pragmatist, joined Partindo, one of the political parties in existence at the time. This marked a new phase in his political career, but it also symbolized the broader fragmentation of Dayak political power following the collapse of the PPD. The era of the New Order had arrived, and with it came an increased centralization of power in Jakarta, as the regime sought to manipulate regional politics by appointing officials who were seen as loyal to the central government.

Despite the setbacks in his political career, Oevaang Oerai’s legacy remains a powerful symbol of Dayak resilience and determination. He was a multifaceted figure who played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of West Kalimantan and in securing a place for the Dayak people in the nation’s broader political discourse. Throughout his life, Oevaang remained steadfast in his commitment to fighting for the rights and dignity of the Dayak. His struggle was not just for political power but for the recognition and respect that the Dayak people deserved.

In recognition of his contributions to the Dayak community and his role in shaping the history of West Kalimantan, Oevaang’s name has been immortalized in several ways. A swimming pool in Pontianak bears his name, as does a street in the city, serving as a permanent reminder of his legacy. These tributes ensure that future generations will remember the first Dayak governor, whose tireless efforts paved the way for the political empowerment of the Dayak people and whose contributions to the community remain an enduring source of pride.

Featured in the "101 Tokoh Dayak" Book

Due to his unwavering dedication, service, and significant contributions to the Dayak people, Dayak identity, and the nation of Indonesia, Oevaang Oeray has earned a place in history as one of the most influential figures in advocating for the rights and dignity of the Dayak community. His legacy is not confined to Kalimantan Barat but is recognized throughout Indonesia, where he is celebrated as a symbol of perseverance, bravery, and the struggle for indigenous rights.

To honor his efforts, Oevaang Oeray's name is prominently featured in 101 Tokoh Dayak Jilid 1 - 101 Dayak Figures Volume 1 (2014), a book that highlights 101 of the most impactful Dayak leaders. His entry appears on pages 102-104, where he is celebrated for his significant role in advancing the welfare and progress of the Dayak people. 

This recognition also acknowledges his extraordinary contributions to the national development of Indonesia. His inclusion in this esteemed list underscores the immense role Oevaang played in shaping the political, social, and cultural landscape of Kalimantan Barat, as well as his relentless pursuit of a strong political voice for the Dayak people on a national level.

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By being included in this prestigious book, Oevaang's legacy is immortalized as an icon of Dayak leadership and advocacy, ensuring that future generations will remember and be inspired by his tireless work for the community and the nation.

-- Masri Sareb Putra