The Punan Batu tribe is the last tribe in Borneo, Indonesia, maintaining a prehistoric way of life by hunting and gathering.
They primarily depend on the forest for their livelihood, which is slowly disappearing due to deforestation and plantation development.
Daily Life
Foraging for Food
Family members collect forest fruits for consumption.
The narrator mentions a specific fruit called ‘Torai’ that is described as ‘manyak’ (delicious in Indonesian).
Seasonal foraging:
They move to areas with fruits and honey, spending time in huts and changing locations according to seasonal availability.
Forest Significance
The forest is crucial to the Punan Batu people's identity and survival.
Loss of the forest means danger for their existence as hunting and gathering becomes increasingly difficult due to land being converted into plantations (e.g., palm oil).
Challenges Facing the Tribe
The tribe consists of less than 100 members and is facing extinction.
Many children and young members are not formally educated, limiting their job prospects outside the forest.
Dependence on consumable products from the city is increasing, leading to financial struggles and debts to local shops.
Location
The Punan Batu live near Benau Mountain in Bulungan, North Kalimantan.
Their homes are in a remote area without cell reception, accessed via boat down the Sajau River.
Cultural Identity
The term ‘Batu’ means stone in Indonesian, reflecting their living conditions under rocks or caves in the forest.
They typically occupy a cave or hut for 8-9 days before moving to a new location based on resource availability.