Patricia Ganing and the Resonance of Gua Niah
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The cover of the poetry collection “Suara Pasrah Dari Gua Niah” by Patricia Ganing: an oasis for the soul of a wanderer seeking truth and beauty.
JAKARTA - dayaktoday.com: Today, the Dayak people are focused on conversations that extend far beyond basic needs like food and drink. Their discussions now center on beauty, dignity, goodness, culture, books, and poetry. This shift is embodied by many educated Dayaks, including Dr. Patricia Ganing.
Patricia Ganing celebrates Iban culture and literature
Patricia Ganing is a celebrated name in Indonesia, despite being a Malaysian citizen. As an Iban woman with a doctorate, she is a prominent speaker on the rich traditions of Iban culture, particularly in West Kalimantan. Her scholarly and literary contributions have left an enduring impact on the cultural and intellectual legacy of the Dayak community.
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On August 5, 2024, Patricia once again garnered attention in Sekadau by contributing three of her books to the growing collection of publications by the Keling Kumang Institute of Technology (ITKK). These works brought ITKK’s total to 60 ISBN-registered books, earning the institute a prestigious accolade from the Indonesian Museum of Records (Museum Rekor Dunia-Indonesia -- MURI) for producing the highest number of ISBN books by a community-driven university managed by an indigenous society. This recognition established ITKK as a cornerstone of knowledge and cultural preservation for the Dayak people.
In 2025, Patricia is set to release a captivating poetry collection titled “Suara Pasrah Dari Gua Niah” (“Resigned Voices from Niah Cave”). This collection delves into the profound historical and spiritual significance of Niah Cave, one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites. Situated in Batu Niah, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia; the cave holds evidence of human existence dating back 40,000 years, as confirmed through radiocarbon dating. For both the Dayak community and the academic world, Niah Cave is a sacred connection to the past and a symbol of resilience and survival.
Patricia’s poetry reflects resilience, heritage, and humanity
Patricia’s “Suara Pasrah Dari Gua Niah” is far more than a mere collection of poems—it is a deeply personal and spiritual journey. The book serves as a heartfelt diary chronicling Patricia’s challenges and triumphs as a woman, a scholar, and a cultural advocate. Spanning over a decade, from 2013 to the present, the collection reflects her personal growth and unwavering hope through life’s trials and tribulations.
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Comprising 50 poems, the collection vividly portrays the interconnectedness of nature, humanity, and the divine. Through her evocative words, Patricia brings to life the majestic beauty of Niah Cave, its timeless link to the Iban people, and its broader themes of perseverance and gratitude. “Every stanza is a reflection of my experiences,” Patricia says. “Some joyous, some painful, but all filled with hope and dreams.”
The poetry does more than celebrate the natural and cultural richness of Niah Cave—it explores the deeper existential questions of life. Themes of faith, identity, and humanity’s relationship with nature permeate the collection, offering readers a profound look into Patricia’s heart and mind. Her words serve as a bridge, connecting the past with the present, and preserving the ancestral voices of the Dayak people for future generations.
Through her poetry, Patricia Ganing not only elevates the cultural significance of Gua Niah but also reinforces the importance of heritage, understanding, and the shared human experience. Her work is a testament to the strength, wisdom, and creative spirit of the Iban people, inspiring others to embrace the beauty of their roots while finding harmony in a modern world.
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Patricia’s legacy is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and hope. With each word she pens, she invites readers to journey with her—into the depths of Niah Cave, the pages of her books, and the collective soul of the Dayak community.
-- Masri Sareb Putra