The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples (HIMAS), which is celebrated every August 9, is not just an annual celebration. It is an important milestone that marks the long struggle of indigenous peoples in defending their rights. Also protecting the living space that has been passed down from generation to generation. In Indonesia, this struggle is very relevant. Given the many challenges faced by indigenous peoples in maintaining their cultural identity amidst the increasingly strong current of modernization.
Indigenous peoples in Indonesia often face similar problems. Such as the lack of protection of their rights. As well as threats to the preservation of customs and culture that have become an inseparable part of their lives. In an effort to increase awareness and understanding of the importance of protecting indigenous peoples, Pundi Sumatra, KKI WARSI, and SEAD Jambi collaborated to hold a Campaign and Public Discussion action in the context of the 2024 HIMAS celebration with the theme "Our Solidarity for Indigenous Peoples".
This collaboration is supported by Partnership Partnership. Being one of the important efforts made by local CSO organizations, together with the government, to provide space for the community, especially in Jambi. This moment is also used to have direct dialogue with representatives of indigenous communities. One of them is the Talang Mamak Tribe and the Anak Dalam Tribe (Orang Rimba) Jambi. This event was held around the Pendopo Hall of the Jambi Governor's Office, Sunday, August 11, 2024. This event also coincided with the moment car Free Day, which provides an opportunity for the public to be directly involved in this celebration.
Robert Aritonang, as Manager The KKI WARSI program, in its speech, emphasized that indigenous peoples are at the forefront of protecting the environment. "They live very close to nature, all knowledge about nature is in their life practices. This celebration is a momentum to strengthen their voices in defending their land, forests, and traditions," he said. This statement reflects how important the role of indigenous peoples is in environmental conservation efforts. Where it is now increasingly threatened by industrial expansion and climate change.
One of the main attractions in this HIMAS celebration is the presence of bazaar indigenous community craft products displayed in the sudung. Sudung is a simple house built using forest wood, bamboo, and a roof made of coconut leaves or rumbai. It is a symbol of local wisdom and the familiarity of indigenous people with their natural environment. The products on display include forest honey, rattan weaving, palm leaf plates, woven mats, ambung, and lukah. Not only does it have aesthetic value but it also contains a deep philosophy about the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
In addition, visitors are also presented with a mini photo exhibition that displays portraits of the daily lives of indigenous communities assisted by Pundi Sumatra, KKI WARSI, and SEAD Jambi. This exhibition attracts the attention of many people who want to see more closely the side of life and humanity of SAD and Talang Mamak. Each photo displayed not only tells a life story. But also highlights the challenges faced by this community in maintaining their survival amidst various external pressures.
As the culmination of the celebration, a panel discussion was held involving various parties. Including representatives from Pundi Sumatra, KKI WARSI, SEAD Jambi, Sentra Alyatama Jambi, and representatives from Suku Anak Dalam and Talang Mamak. This discussion discussed various experiences and challenges faced in empowering indigenous communities. As well as how synergy between the government, CSOs, and the community can be key in efforts to recognize and protect the rights of indigenous peoples.
The HIMAS 2024 celebration closed with an entertainment performance from musician Ismet, who sang a song about concerns about nature and the shrinking living space of the Orang Rimba. This song was a meaningful closing. Reminding us that protecting nature and their rights is far from over, and requires support and solidarity from various parties.
