Capacity Strengthening Program for MHA in Forest Management in MHA Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu and Dayak Seberuang Kampung Ansok in Sintang Regency

To the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu indigenous community, the forest is not merely a collection of trees and animals. It is a spiritual home, a heritage of their ancestors, and a source of life. Therefore, it is important for them to clearly understand the boundaries of the territory that must be protected and preserved.

The Riam Batu Customary Forest, a region rich in natural and cultural heritage, has recently gained attention following the issuance of the Regent’s Decree Number 660/707/KEP-DLH/2020 Regarding the Recognition and Protection of the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Customary Law Community in Ketemenggungan Hulu Tempunak Drsa Riam Batu Sub-District, Sintang Regency. This decree elaborates in detail on the boundaries of the customary forest that must be protected and preserved by the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Indigenous Community.

This decree provides a legal foundation that strongly supports environmental protection and the sustainability of the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Customary Forest ecosystem. With this decree, the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Indigenous Community has a clear guideline for managing and preserving their customary forest.

In this decree, the boundaries of the customary forest are carefully delineated based on in-depth studies of geographical, cultural, and ecological aspects. This not only establishes the areas that must be protected but also provides legal security for the indigenous community in their efforts to maintain the existence of the customary forest.

The socialization of this decree is a crucial step in ensuring a deep understanding and mutual agreement between the indigenous community, local government, and other relevant parties. During the socialization event, detailed explanations are provided about the implications of this decree on the daily lives of the community and the importance of preserving the customary forest for a sustainable future.

At the socialization event attended by traditional leaders, community figures, and government representatives, a detailed explanation is provided regarding the importance of preserving the customary forest. By establishing clear boundaries, it is hoped that damaging exploitation activities can be prevented, while the sustainability of the forest ecosystem can be maintained.

Furthermore, this socialization is also an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the indigenous community and the government. Close collaboration is necessary to monitor and protect the customary forest from external threats, such as illegal logging and plantation expansion.

The Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Indigenous Community welcomes this socialization and participates with high enthusiasm. They realize that the protection of the customary forest is not only about environmental sustainability but also about their own well-being. In their efforts to maintain their livelihoods and cultural heritage, their awareness of the importance of preserving the customary forest deepens.

It is hoped that through this socialization, a mutual agreement on the boundaries of the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Customary Forest and with full support from the indigenous community, local government, and other stakeholders, the implementation of Regent’s Decree Number 660/707/KEP-DLH/2020 can be a significant milestone in the effort to protect the customary forest and environmental sustainability in the Dayak Seberuang Riam Batu Customary Forest. It is not just about preserving the forest, but also about securing a better future for their future generations.

Contributors:

Sunaring Kurniandaru