Land Dayak, Bekati in Indonesia

Introduction / History

The Bekati are one of the many subgroups of the Land Dayak (Bidayuh) peoples who inhabit the interior regions of northwestern Kalimantan on the island of Borneo. They are part of a wider cluster of related groups who share linguistic and cultural similarities but maintain distinct identities through dialects, customs, and territories. Their language, Bakati', belongs to the Austronesian family and has several local variations tied to different communities.

Historically, Land Dayak peoples have lived in the forested hills of Borneo, often relocating within the region over generations to find fertile land and maintain autonomy. Their identity is deeply tied to their ancestral lands, which serve as the foundation for their culture, livelihood, and spiritual worldview.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Bekati Land Dayaks live primarily in rural, forested areas where daily life revolves around subsistence agriculture. Farming—especially hill rice cultivation—is the central activity, with families clearing and planting fields in cycles that reflect long-standing ecological knowledge.

Their agricultural system typically involves stages such as clearing land, planting, tending crops, and harvesting, often carried out with communal cooperation and accompanied by ritual observances. Fishing and hunting supplement their diets, providing protein and linking them closely to the surrounding rivers and forests.

Village life is strongly community oriented. Traditionally, Land Dayak groups lived in longhouses or clustered settlements that reinforced cooperation and shared identity, although many now live in individual family homes. Social life centers on family ties, mutual assistance, and seasonal rhythms tied to farming.

Recreation and enjoyment are woven into communal events rather than separated as individual leisure. Festivals, especially harvest celebrations, include music, dancing, feasting, and storytelling, strengthening social bonds and celebrating the community's dependence on the land and one another.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bekati traditionally follow an ethnic religion rooted in animistic beliefs, where the natural world is inhabited by spirits that influence daily life. Their worldview emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and the spirit realm. Rituals are performed to ensure good harvests, health, and protection from misfortune.

Agricultural cycles are closely tied to spiritual practices. Before planting or harvesting, ceremonies may be conducted to honor ancestral spirits and seek blessing on the land. Festivals such as harvest celebrations also serve religious purposes, expressing gratitude and reinforcing communal identity.

Although some have been influenced by Christianity, traditional beliefs often remain influential, especially in rural areas, where rituals and customary practices continue alongside newer religious expressions.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bekati Land Dayaks face pressure from outside forces that threaten their traditional way of life. Their forest homeland is vulnerable to development, including logging, agriculture expansion, and government resettlement initiatives that may bring other populations into their region.

Loss of land not only affects their economic survival but also undermines their cultural and spiritual identity, which is closely tied to their environment. Wider modernization trends can also challenge the transmission of language and traditions to younger generations.

In addition, limited access to resources such as education, healthcare, and culturally appropriate Christian discipleship materials can leave communities isolated both physically and spiritually.

Prayer Points

Pray for protection of Bekati lands and for justice in the face of outside pressures.
Pray that their communities would experience peace and stability as they navigate social and environmental changes.
Pray for open hearts and a clear understanding of biblical truth in ways that respect and speak into their cultural worldview.
Pray for workers who are sensitive to their language and culture and committed to long-term discipleship.
Pray for strengthening of families and communities as foundations for both cultural preservation and spiritual growth.

Text Source:   Joshua Project