Indigenous Forest: The Crucial Role Of Dayak Benawan Women’s Knowledge In West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

This article explores the forest management knowledge of Dayak Benawan women in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The Dayak Benawan women have an intricate understanding of their surrounding forest and its resources, which they utilize for their livelihoods. However, the rapid pace of development, modernization, and the changing land tenure system, coupled with a lack of recognition of Indigenous knowledge, have jeopardized their traditional forest management practices. This study draws upon ethnography research, to understand the native knowledge and practices of Dayak Benawan women in forest management. The findings suggest that Dayak Benawan women's forest management knowledge is crucial in maintaining the ecological balance and the sustenance of their communities. However, the current development trajectory and policies threaten their livelihoods, the forest ecosystem, and their knowledge. Therefore, the study highlights the need for recognition of Indigenous knowledge, inclusive policy-making, and collaborative approaches in forest management.