Cultural World/Society

There are basically two main techniques that the Dayaks implement in their surroundings to survive; cultivation and gathering natural resources. Traditionally, Dayaks lived in small communities along the banks of the large river system and mountain ranges; harvesting natural resources such as fish, wild plants, bird nests, herbs, spices, fruits, and wild boar. The Dayaks also cultivate the land to grow rice paddies, palms for the oil, and bananas. They would use a slash and burn technique to open up land for farming and keeping livestock; this technique has recently been on the rise due to the growing demand for commercial farming.

The Dayaks of Kalimantan traditionally lives in communities based in longhouses. Each longhouse is constructed from hundreds of hardwood posts so to elevate the structure from the ground; raising the shelter had multi-fold purpose. Being close to a river system there was the ever present risk of flooding, cattle are able to seek shelter from rain as well as predators underneath, and the elevation promotes a more comfortable living situation where the cool air can circulate. Each longhouse stretches hundreds of meters long and would be lead by its own elders and leaders. The long houses are usually divided into common areas and private living quarters. 

Recently, the Dayak people have adapted their living styles to live in individual homes nearby the village center and the longhouses are constructed for modern materials. Also, many have electricity and even parking lots in the front of the building.