Lestari

Huma Betang: The Living Heritage of the Dayak People 

BorneoGaze - August 17, 2025

Authors: Ricardo Alberto Kadun  & Sonia Kristiani Putri

Supervisor : Lidia Natalia ,S.Pd.

Distinctive Features

Every element of Rumah Betang is steeped in practicality and meaning:

• Elongated form – built to accommodate many families at once.

• Stilts 3–5 meters high – protecting residents from floods and wild animals.

• Single staircase – serving as the main entrance, a point of control and protection.

• Ulin wood – a dense, durable timber that withstands the test of time.

More Than a House

Beyond being a residence, Rumah Betang serves as the beating heart of Dayak culture. It is where ceremonies take place, where decisions are made, and where traditions are passed down. Inside its wooden walls, one can feel the pulse of togetherness, as families share space, responsibilities, and life itself.

Philosophy of Togetherness

At its core, Rumah Betang embodies the Dayak philosophy of Belum Bahadat—living with courtesy, respect, and adherence to tradition. Within these longhouses, every resident is equal, bound by shared duties and mutual care. It’s a philosophy that continues to inspire harmony, regardless of differences in tribe, faith, or background.

Visiting a Rumah Betang is more than stepping into a building—it’s stepping into the soul of Dayak culture, where architecture and philosophy intertwine to celebrate the beauty of living together in peace.