Kelatang Caterpillar: The Hidden Culinary Gem of Krayan, North Kalimantan

Caterpillar Kelatang still inside a wooden log. Illustration: Arbain Rambey.

BORNEOTRAVEL - TARAKAN:  Kelatang. Have you ever heard of this extreme yet nutritious delicacy? If not, then visit and explore Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. 

Kelatang is a specific type of wood caterpillar native to Krayan, North Kalimantan. These caterpillars are clean and feed solely on the fragrant wood. 

Kelatang has become a unique culinary attraction, even an exotic eco-tourism experience in the heart of Borneo, offering something truly one-of-a-kind.

Krayan covered by 90% virgin forest and situated at an altitude of 800 - 1,300 meters above sea level, holds extraordinary natural wealth. In his dissertation published in 2021, Dr. Samuel Tipa Padan concluded that Krayan can sustain itself with its natural resources. Moreover, these resources will never be exhausted if managed properly and effectively.

One of the thousands of "natural assets in Krayan" is the "kelatang caterpillar." This caterpillar is clean, only living and dwelling in certain types of wood. To harvest it, the wood is felled and cut open to retrieve the caterpillars nesting inside.

Kelatang: The Natural Wealth of Krayan

In the interior forests of North Kalimantan, particularly in Krayan, there lies a mystery surrounding a small creature called kelatang.

Kelatang, a type of caterpillar without hairs, has become a topic of interest among the Dayak people. What makes it truly stand out is the fact that this creature has two gall bladders, a rarity in nature.

In the forest areas, plantations, rice fields, and agricultural lands owned by Dr. Yansen TP in Batu Ruyud, there is an abundance of wood containing kelatang caterpillars.

Though it may seem strange to many, the Lundayeh Dayak tribe, who live in Krayan, regard kelatang as a culinary treasure. The Krayan people utilize kelatang as a food ingredient that provides a unique flavor not found in other vegetables or animals.

When cooked in a unique way, kelatang offers a distinctive taste combination that delights anyone who tries it.

Processing Kelatang

The processing of kelatang begins with selecting high-quality caterpillars. The Dayak people have a special method for capturing and preparing kelatang, involving age-old traditions and deep knowledge of the forest habitat. The caterpillars are then cleaned and cooked with natural spices found in the Kalimantan forest, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also rich in cultural and historical value.

Properly prepared kelatang brings a sense of adventure, highlighting the wonders of the North Kalimantan forest.

In addition to being processed into delicious and nutritious culinary dishes, kelatang caterpillars can also be eaten raw as they are clean.

Kelatang as a nutritious and extraordinary delicacy in Krayan. Photo: Melvari.

The unique taste of kelatang, which is slightly sweet and savory with an unusual deliciousness, makes it a favorite among the Dayak community and culinary adventurers willing to try something new.

Not just food but a symbol of the natural wealth and biodiversity

The kelatang caterpillar is far more than just a culinary delicacy; it is a living testament to the extraordinary biodiversity of Borneo’s rainforests. 

Nestled deep within the lush greenery of Borneo, these caterpillars play a crucial role in the rainforest’s complex ecosystem, representing the intricate balance of life that characterizes this ancient forest. Their presence is a vivid reminder of the rainforest’s rich ecological wealth and underscores the urgent need to preserve these vital natural habitats.

For the Dayak people, the kelatang caterpillar holds profound significance. It symbolizes not only the abundance of the rainforest but also a deep cultural heritage. This connection reflects a longstanding tradition of respect and reverence for nature, highlighting how integral the rainforest is to the Dayak way of life. The kelatang is celebrated in traditional ceremonies and meals, embodying the sustenance and spiritual connection that the forest provides.

Consuming kelatang offers more than just a unique culinary experience; it is an immersion into a tradition that honors the rainforest's role in sustaining both its diverse wildlife and the human communities that depend on it. Each bite of kelatang connects one with the rich tapestry of life that thrives within the rainforest and reinforces the importance of preserving this irreplaceable ecosystem.

As we savor the flavors of kelatang, we also partake in a broader cultural narrative that champions the protection of Borneo’s rainforests. 

The kelatang caterpillar serves as a powerful symbol of the rainforest’s abundance and the urgent need to safeguard its future. 

By valuing and protecting this remarkable ecosystem, we ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and celebrate the profound connections between nature, culture, and sustenance.

-- Masri Sareb Putra