Philippine E-Journals

Behind the Ulap Doyo of East Borneo: Indigenous Women and the Importance of Media Coverage

Anggia Valerisha Parahyangan | Mega Yanti Parahyangan

 

Abstract:

This paper explores the interconnection between indigenous people, gender, and the media through the case of indigenous women in East Borneo, Indonesia. This descriptive study addresses two main questions: first, “What challenges do the indigenous women of Dayak Benuaq face in the context of making ulap doyo?” Second, “What role does the media play in this issue?” The ulap doyo, an authentic woven fabric from East Borneo, has been created by the women of the community for centuries and has become part of the cultural identity of the indigenous people of Dayak Benuaq. This article uses a case study-based, qualitative approach associated with documentary research. The findings indicate that the indigenous women of Dayak Benuaq in East Borneo have been struggling for recognition as key players in sustaining the cultural heritage of ulap doyo as well as in building gender equality in the community. We argue that the media, in various forms, can play a significant role in strengthening the ulap doyo tradition, empowering the indigenous women of Dayak Benuaq, providing them space to participate in the social and political aspects of their communities, and challenging various stereotypes associated with the indigenous people of Borneo.