Cultural Values and Behaviors of the Dayak and Malay Communities in the Social Forestry Program in Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan

Abstract

This article explores the cultural values and behaviors of the Dayak and Malay communities in supporting the Social Forestry Program in the Northern Kapuas Hulu Forest Management Unit (FMU), Kapuas Hulu District, West Kalimantan. The research aims to understand the cultural values and behaviors of the Dayak and Malay communities that can significantly contribute to the success of the social forestry program. The research method involves literature review and in-depth interviews with traditional community figures and experts in community engagement. The study was conducted under the Foreign Grant Project from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Data for the research was collected from 2021 to 2022. The main findings of this research include the necessity of high respect for the Dayak community's ancestors and an understanding of the key role of traditional figures in determining the program's success. The results of the social forestry program applications in three villages in Northern Kapuas Hulu FMU, including three schemes: Customary Forest, Village Forest, and Conservation Partnership, were approved covering a total of 16,031 Ha and benefiting 729 indigenous family households, including 228 women. The conclusion of this research highlights the importance of aligning social forestry schemes with community preferences and gaining full support from the Chief of the Adat. Intensive consultation processes are required to obtain community support, while a deep understanding of local culture and interaction with forest resources is crucial for success.