Apai Janggut is the Professor of the Best Dayak Nature School on the Sungai Utik
 |
| Apai Janggut, the 'professor,' because his level is equivalent to, or even higher than, that of the faculty at the Sungai Utik Nature College, and his General Statement about the concept of Nature University. This image is displayed on the front door of Apai Janggut's room in the Sungai Utik Longhouse. |
PONTIANAK- dayaktoday.com: Nestled in the heart of Borneo, Sungai Utik stands as a beacon of environmental education. This unique institution transcends traditional classrooms, offering lessons deeply rooted in the wisdom of living harmoniously with nature.
Apai Janggut's role extends beyond that of a conventional educator. He embodies the essence of a living library, imparting lessons not only through spoken word but also through the lived experiences of the community. His teachings encompass a holistic understanding of the environment, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Read Promotion of Professor at Universitas Tanjungpura: Eusabinus Bunau Officially Becomes a Professor
In Sungai Utik, education is a communal endeavor. The community collectively engages in activities such as sustainable farming, forest conservation, and traditional crafts, all under the guidance of elders like Apai Janggut. This immersive approach ensures that each member, regardless of age, contributes to and learns from the collective wisdom, fostering a deep-seated respect for the environment and a commitment to its stewardship.
Apai Janggut: A Living Testament to Environmental Stewardship
Apai Janggut's life is a testament to the principles of environmental stewardship and sustainable living. His deep connection to the land is evident in his advocacy for the recognition of indigenous land rights and his resistance against activities that threaten the integrity of the environment, such as illegal logging and palm oil production. For over four decades, he has been a steadfast voice for the protection of his community's ancestral lands, emphasizing the intrinsic value of the forest, river, and land to their way of life.
Read Longhouses of the Dayak People: An Intriguing and Meaningful Tourist Attraction
His leadership has garnered international recognition, including the prestigious Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, awarded for outstanding contributions to climate action and nature-based solutions. This accolade underscores the global significance of his efforts and the universal relevance of indigenous knowledge in addressing environmental challenges.
Apai Janggut's philosophy is encapsulated in his belief that the forest is akin to a father, the earth a mother, and the river the lifeblood of the community. This perspective underscores the deep-seated respect and reverence for nature that permeates the community's ethos, guiding their practices and interactions with the environment.
Sustainable Living: The Philosophy of Apai Janggut's Earth School
The principles upheld by Apai Janggut are not merely theoretical; they are lived practices that permeate every aspect of life in Sungai Utik. The traditional longhouse, or "betang," serves as a physical manifestation of these values, embodying communal living, shared responsibilities, and a harmonious relationship with the environment. Constructed using sustainable materials and traditional methods, the betang stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and natural surroundings.
Read The Motif of the Tattoos of Apai Janggut and Panglima Jilah: The Legacy of Legends
Central to the community's sustainable practices is the concept of "huma," or swidden agriculture. This traditional farming method involves rotating cultivation areas to allow the land to regenerate, maintaining soil fertility and biodiversity. It is a practice that embodies respect for the land, ensuring that it remains productive and healthy for future generations.
Apai Janggut's teachings emphasize the importance of balance and reciprocity in all interactions with the environment. He advocates for practices that are in harmony with natural cycles, such as the prohibition of using soap in rivers to preserve water quality and the consumption of unprocessed water directly from the river, reflecting a deep respect for the purity of natural resources. These practices are not merely rules but are integral to the community's identity and their understanding of their place within the broader ecological system.
Through his leadership and philosophy, Apai Janggut has transformed Sungai Utik into a living classroom where the lessons of sustainability, respect for nature, and communal responsibility are imparted daily.
Bandi anak Ragae, originally named Apai Janggut, lives and works as a powerful testament to the deep wisdom that Dayak communities offer in preserving environmental balance and sustainability.
-- Masri Sareb Putra