Eliyas Yesaya: The Heart of a Versatile Dayak Lundayeh Artist from Borneo

Eliyas Yesaya’s local and international achievements, highlighting his profound impact both at home and abroad. Doc. EY.

There, you’ll encounter a remarkable Lundayeh artist and cultural expert known as Eliyas Yesaya. Eliyas is a maestro whose talents have not only enriched his local community but have also captured the global stage.

A Journey from the Heart of Borneo

Born in 1962 in Krayan, Terang Baru Village, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, Eliyas Yesaya grew up during a turbulent period of political transition in Indonesia. 

Despite the challenges of his remote upbringing, he completed his elementary education in his hometown before moving on to high school in Tarakan. He later graduated from the Tarakan School of Economics in 1997.

Eliyas is more than just a cultural enthusiast; he is a maestro dedicated to the preservation and advancement of Dayak arts and culture across the High Plains of Borneo, both in Indonesia and Malaysia. 

His extensive involvement includes representing Dayak culture on international stages and pioneering organic rice farming in Krayan, showcasing his commitment to sustainable agriculture.

A multi-talented artisan

Eliyas’s talents extend far beyond traditional cultural roles. He excels in crafting and playing traditional bamboo musical instruments. 

From flutes to percussion and stringed instruments, his mastery is evident in every performance, creating deeply emotional and captivating experiences for audiences. 

His creation, the "keng," inspired by the sound of a falling fruit, adds a unique and dynamic rhythm to his performances. Additionally, the "telimut," another bamboo instrument, contributes a distinctive flavor to his musical repertoire.

Eliyas’s skills are not confined to his local community. His artistry has transcended borders, taking him to international venues such as Italy. There, he has introduced audiences to the enchanting rhythms of Dayak instruments and the grace of Lundayeh dance. His performances in Italy were met with enthusiasm, as he showcased the intricate beauty of traditional Dayak music and dance. His global travels have included cultural exchange programs where he not only performed but also conducted workshops and lectures on Lundayeh culture. These engagements have enriched his understanding of how traditional arts can resonate across different cultures, fostering mutual appreciation and understanding.

An enduring legacy

According to the Bupati of Malinau, who also serves as the Chairman of the Central Board of the Persekutuan Dayak Lundayeh (PDL), "Eliyas is a true role model. He is not valued merely for his rank or position but for his enduring contributions and the inspirational works he has created." This praise highlights the significant impact Eliyas has made in preserving and advancing Dayak culture.

Eliyas proudly displays his Dayak identity through traditional attire and attributes, offering detailed insights into the historical tools and practices of the Lundayeh people. His commitment to cultural preservation is evident in his belief that art and culture will disappear if not cherished and maintained. 

Eliyas Yesaya (center) while engaging in artistic activities in Italy, represented the Dayak Lundayeh. Doc. EY.

Eliyas Yesaya’s role as an expert and artist enriches not only the Lundayeh community but also the broader Dayak ethnic group. His dedication to cultural preservation and creative expression makes him a shining example of how tradition and innovation can coexist and thrive. His international success underscores the power of cultural exchange and the importance of celebrating and preserving heritage in an increasingly interconnected world.

Eliyas Yesaya’s local and international achievements, highlighting his profound impact both at home and abroad.

-- Rangkaya Bada