Dayak traditions guide culture-based ecotourism growth
Indonesia’s Sintang Regency offers a model for how culture and nature can work together to build sustainable tourism. A 2025 Booking.com study shows that travelers now prefer authentic, community-based experiences. In the Philippines, where tourism is projected to contribute PHP 5.9 trillion this year, this model offers timely lessons.
Nature-based tourism in Southeast Asia faces major challenges. Climate change and land conversion threaten biodiversity, with 30% of land lost to agriculture and more than 5,600 species at risk. This loss also harms indigenous communities that depend on forests for food, medicine, and rituals.
In Sintang, the Dayak Desa community demonstrates how traditions safeguard both culture and environment. Through the ExploNation program, supported by Lingkar Temu Kabupaten Lestari (LTKL), young Indonesians partnered with storytellers and travel bloggers to highlight ecotourism practices.
Visitors immersed themselves in local life at Ensaid Panjang Village. They stayed in longhouses called Rumah Betang, explored “Rimba Gupung” community forests, and joined oral storytelling sessions known as “Tutur Bedudu.” Women weavers also shared their skill in tenun ikat, a knot weaving technique that uses natural forest dyes. These practices not only preserve cultural heritage but also provide livelihoods.
Travel blogger Febrian stressed the urgent need for environmental restoration as a foundation for a sustainable economy. Abex, another storyteller, reminded participants that “There’s No Planet B,” emphasizing the need to protect nature for survival.
Tourism potential in West Kalimantan is growing. In 2024, the province welcomed 8.1 million domestic tourists and 73,000 international visitors, a 73% increase from the previous year. With more foreign travelers interested in eco and cultural tourism, growth is likely to accelerate.
Government officials see ExploNation as a platform that empowers youth and content creators to share positive stories. By promoting cultural wisdom and environmental stewardship, Indonesia shows that forests and traditions can anchor culture-based ecotourism. For the Philippines, the lesson is clear: protecting heritage and ecosystems can strengthen both communities and the economy.
