Nurhayati, an indigenous woman from the Dayak Punan Tugung community, shared her traditional knowledge based on local wisdom in their customary territory. She emphasized the importance of local wisdom and the use of traditional medicines, or ethnobotany, which has been passed down for generations.
During her presentation, Nurhayati showcased various herbal plants that serve as remedies for health issues ranging from feverish feelings to poison antidotes. “The forest is like a free supermarket and pharmacy for us. We can find all the necessities we need there. We cannot be separated from our customary forest,” Nurhayati added.
Despite being key players in biodiversity conservation, Indigenous Peoples receive minimal recognition. Data from PADI Indonesia and JKPP indicate that the official recognition of Indigenous Peoples in North Kalimantan is limited to just three regencies: Malinau, Nunukan, and Bulungan. “So far, only 19 Indigenous Peoples communities have been formally recognized, all within these three regencies even though there are more than that,” said Among, Executive Director of PADI Indonesia and advisor to the Dayak Punan Tugung Indigenous Peoples.
“Indigenous Peoples communities are not the cause of biodiversity loss and climate change; rather, they are the frontline defenders and the first to be directly affected by its loss,” Among added. “It is essential for Indigenous Peoples communities to receive formal recognition and support from the global community to ensure their continued role in biodiversity conservation and management.”
Indigenous Peoples communities in Kalimantan aren’t alone in their struggle for recognition of their rights and territories. Across Indonesia—and at the global level in negotiations like COP16 CBD—the fight for respect and recognition of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities’ rights remain challenging, even though these communities have played a proven role in biodiversity protection and indirectly contribute to achieving the 3rd target of KM-GBF.
Recognition and respect for the rights and territories of Indigenous Peoples are essential prerequisites for them to continue their effective practices in sustainable ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation.
Yoki Hadiprakarsa from the Rekam Nusantara Foundation emphasized, “Indigenous Peoples’ effort to sustainably manage and protect their customary forests have been ongoing for generations. Continuous technical and financial support from various stakeholders is crucial to ensure ongoing biodiversity conservation. This not only advances the implementation of KM-GBF in Indonesia, but also provides immense, long-term benefits for Indonesia and the global community.” (*)
