Lewi: The Indigenous Champion of the Borneo Highlands and its Environment

Lewi G. Paru

Lewi is a well-known figure in the Borneo Highlands, widely recognized for being petite in stature but possessing a great determination, especially in the areas of environmental conservation and the protection of indigenous people's rights.

In recognition of his unwavering commitment and dedicated service as a customary leader in Krayan for 35 years, Lewi was honored with the Equator Award.

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The Indigenous Peoples of the Borneo Highlands, also known as FORMADA (Indigenous Peoples Forum), convened in Long Bawan (Krayan) in October 2004. This endeavor derives its authority from the region's traditional leadership.

Lewi not only fulfilled his promises but also pursued his dreams and fought tirelessly for them. Lewi G. Paru, the customary head of Krayan Selatan, leads the Indonesian branch of Formadat, while George Sigar Sultan, the head of Ba'Kelalan custom, serves as the leader of the Malaysian Formadat.

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Formadat is a transboundary, foundational initiative with the primary goal of raising awareness and understanding of upland communities, preserving cultural traditions, enhancing the capacity of local communities, and promoting sustainable development in the heart of Borneo while safeguarding social and environmental authenticity.

In the past, Lewi was known as a man of the cloth, trusted for his words and actions. Lewi from Long Layu, an elder of the Krayan people, was no exception. He was someone for whom there was no gap between his words and deeds. 

Lewi, upon receiving the Equator Prize, exemplifies Formadat's mission. Formadat's overarching objective is to advance sustainable development through community-based ecotourism, organic farming, agro-forestry practices, communication and information technology, and the preservation of the indigenous heritage and culture of the highlands, all of which benefit both present and future generations. 

Lewi, when receiving the Equator Prize.

Formadat is divided into two branches: Formadat Indonesia, encompassing the regions in Krayan and Krayan Selatan Districts, and Formadat Malaysia, which includes the Bario, Ba Kelalan, Long Semadoh, and Ulu Padas regions.

Formadat has received formal registration as a social organization in Nunukan Subdistrict (Indonesia) and Sarawak, in compliance with relevant legal regulations and procedures, as stipulated in the organization's charter.

Levi's work and dedication are truly remarkable. At the age of 80, he continues to labor tirelessly, driven by his vision of preserving the natural, pollution-free, and organic environment and ensuring that the people of Krayan can continue to live amidst its pristine beauty, as he expressed in the serene barn beside his fish pond, where the river converges with the Krayan.

Portrait of the indigenous people in Krayan: Do not assume they are backward; they harmoniously blend tradition with modernity.

The house of the village head, who dedicated 25 years to his role, is situated in the picturesque surroundings of Long Layu, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. It is nestled amidst lush fruit trees, coconut palms, flourishing organic vegetable gardens, and a serene buffalo farm, making it a truly beautiful abode.

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In the past, Lewi was known as a man of the cloth, trusted for his words and actions. Lewi from Long Layu, an elder of the Krayan people, was no exception. He was someone for whom there was no gap between his words and deeds. 

Specifically for Lewi, he was a simple-hearted individual, inclined to sharing, and he took great joy in teaching others, especially guiding them towards living harmoniously and in friendship with nature.
(Rangkaya Bada)