The Natural Intelligence of the Dayak People
Apai Janggut as a Model of the Dayak People’s Exceptional Natural Intelligence: Recipient of the Quator Prize and Gulbenkian Award, Prestigious International Honors.Credit photo: Masri Sareb.
🌍 DAYAK TODAY | PONTIANAK : The Dayak people possess an extraordinary natural intelligence—one that sets them apart from other ethnic groups.
Beyond the Dayak people's profound and enduring connection to the land, they have mastered the art of living in harmony with nature while simultaneously harnessing its resources with wisdom and care.
The Dayak’s understanding of natural cycles does not merely aid in agriculture; it informs every aspect of their lives —from hunting and fishing to house-building and water sourcing (Eghenter, Sellato, & Devung, 2003). Their survival is rooted in an intricate knowledge of the environment, a body of wisdom passed down through generations.
For example, when constructing houses near water, they do not rely on modern engineering calculations but instead observe the height at which snails lay their eggs—an organic indicator of the highest tide.
When hunting, the Dayak people meticulously study the wind direction and animal behavior to ensure precision, stealth, and a successful pursuit.. In agriculture, they gauge seasonal changes by monitoring the flora and fauna, ensuring that crops are planted at the most opportune time.
The Dayak’s Knowledge of Medicinal Plants
One of the most remarkable aspects of Dayak intelligence is their profound knowledge of medicinal plants.
The Dayak people know which herbs can heal wounds, reduce fevers, or even neutralize poisons. This knowledge is not mere folklore but is built on centuries of empirical observation and practice (Cunningham, 2001).
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The Dayak are not just passive inhabitants of the forest—they are its stewards, preserving biodiversity while utilizing it for survival.
Dayak reasoning does not operate in the rigid frameworks of Western formal logic, which prioritizes internal consistency and deduction. Instead, Dayak ethno-logic values reasoning that is grounded in observable truth, social harmony, cultural tradition, and ecological sustainability.
A logical argument among the Dayak is not valid simply because it adheres to an abstract rule—it must align with lived experience, uphold communal balance, respect ancestral wisdom, and consider its impact on future generations. This interconnected way of thinking illustrates a profound ecological and ethical intelligence.
Apai Janggut as a Model of the Dayak People’s Intelligence in Natural Wisdom
Understanding the ethno-logic of the Dayak is not merely an academic exercise—it is a form of respect for an ancient civilization’s way of knowing. The Dayak people have long navigated their world with a logic that is both practical and philosophical, rooted in empirical observation yet deeply attuned to the spiritual and social dimensions of life.
In acknowledging the intelligence of the Dayak, we do not simply celebrate their past—we recognize a way of thinking that is deeply relevant to our present and future.
Nestled in the heart of Borneo, Sungai Utik stands as a model of environmental education, going beyond traditional classrooms to offer lessons deeply rooted in the wisdom of living in harmony with nature. This unique community-based approach to learning integrates indigenous knowledge with sustainable practices, fostering a deep respect for the environment.
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At the forefront of this movement is Apai Janggut, a respected elder whose extensive knowledge and leadership have played a crucial role in shaping the community’s way of life. More than just a teacher, he is a living library, passing down lessons through both words and actions. His teachings emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the need to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
In Sungai Utik, education is a shared responsibility. The entire community participates in sustainable farming, forest conservation, and traditional crafts, guided by elders like Apai Janggut. This hands-on approach ensures that people of all ages contribute to and learn from the collective wisdom of their ancestors, strengthening their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Apai Janggut’s life is a testament to sustainability and the protection of indigenous lands. For over four decades, he has been a strong advocate for indigenous land rights, standing against threats such as illegal logging and palm oil plantations. His leadership has earned him international recognition, including the prestigious Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, highlighting the global significance of his efforts.
His philosophy reflects a deep spiritual connection to nature, seeing the forest as a father, the earth as a mother, and the river as the lifeblood of the community. These values are embodied in Sungai Utik’s traditional longhouse, or betang, which represents communal living, shared responsibility, and a sustainable way of life. Practices like huma (swidden agriculture) ensure that the land remains fertile for future generations, demonstrating a balance between human needs and environmental preservation.
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Through his leadership, Apai Janggut has turned Sungai Utik into a living classroom where sustainability, respect for nature, and collective responsibility are taught and practiced every day.
Known as Bandi Anak Ragae in his early years, Apai Janggut remains a powerful symbol of the invaluable environmental wisdom that indigenous Dayak communities offer to the world.
-- Masri Sareb Putra