DAYAK'S HANDICRAFT

As a biggest ethnic in Borneo, Dayak also has a lot of unique handicrafts and have a lot of function, for example Shield which is a tool to defense from enemy's attack. However, every single handicraft also have a long story and used for a long time. In this writing, i want to show you some of the the traditional handicraft from Dayak.

 

Shield/Kelembit
It is a tool to repel enemy's attack in a battle. The shield is made of wood so that it is light and not easily breakable. In front of the shield there are ornaments, however nowadays the ornament is composed with painting of white and red or white or black color. There are 3 basic motives for decorating the shield: 

1. Motif of Enggang Bird (Kalung Tebengaang) 
2. Motif of Dragon/Dog (Kalung Aso') 
3. Motif of Mask (Kalung Udo') 

Besides as protector from enemy?s attach, the shield also functions as: 

1. protection from fire  
2. War dance equipment  
3. Tool for break up a fight 
4. Equipment for Belian ceremony

Nowadays, shield is sold as souvenir / house decoration. 

KUNTILANAK

According to local people, the word Pontianak comes from word Kuntilanak. Kuntilanak is a ghost that frightening us in night. There are many stories about how kuntilanak, but here, i will tell you the trusted story of Kuntilanak. I got this story from old people in pontianak and other places.

A long time ago, there was a beautiful woman named Intan Lemang. Her beauty was well known to many villagers as she has big round eyes, a pointed nose and long black hair past her shoulders.  When she smiled at others, they always always smiled back. Her laugh sounded like melodies that comfort every heart. She was adored by everybody.

GAWAI DAYAK 2011

Have you heard Gawai Dayak? or perhaps you've been there to seen the biggest ethnic in west borneo when they hold a traditional party??
Gawai Dayak was successfully held in May 2011 at Betang House. As usually, a thousand of people came at that party to see the tradition party.
Gawai Dayak was a grateful ritual. it was held because God still blessed them life, food and what they need. However, the effect of ICT is also influences the ritual. The party has a improvisation every years but not omit the principal itself.