Traditional Dayak Lundayeh Attire Crafted from Artocarpus Odoratissimus Bark: Elegance and Creativity

A Dayak Lundayeh couple (Marli Kamis and his wife) look great in their traditional attire made from artocarpus odoratissimus bark. Doc. Marli Kamis.

BORNEO TRAVEL - TANJUNGSELOR: If you're planning a trip to Northern Kalimantan, be sure to make a stop in Malinau or Krayan in Nunukan Regency. 

Here, you'll discover a truly unique and captivating craft: fabric made from tree bark known scientifically as Artocarpus odoratissimus, commonly referred to as Talun.

Crafted bark fabric: skillful, versatile

Talun is a remarkable product born from the skill and tradition of the local people. The process of making this fabric begins with the careful extraction of the tree bark, which is then meticulously stripped to ensure the layers are intact. 

The bark is then pounded with a wooden mallet, resulting in a smooth, flexible texture that resembles cloth. The final product is not only strong and elastic but also aesthetically pleasing, ready to be crafted into a variety of items from clothing to accessories like hats.

For the Dayak people in Northern Kalimantan, Talun holds a special place. During various occasions, whether it's a festival, a traditional ceremony, or a wedding, the Dayak proudly don outfits made from Talun. This fabric doesn’t just enhance their appearance; it also symbolizes their rich cultural identity and deep-rooted traditions.

Artocarpus odoratissimus from Borneo rainforest, abundant and accessible

The Artocarpus odoratissimus tree, found abundantly in the Borneo rainforest, provides a readily accessible resource for crafting Talun fabric. This tree's bark is expertly harvested and processed to create a versatile material that combines durability with aesthetic appeal.

 The availability of Artocarpus odoratissimus in the wild underscores the sustainable practices of using local, natural resources to produce high-quality, traditional textiles.

At traditional events, such as weddings or important rituals, Talun fabric is often the attire of choice. Guests and community members alike are seen dressed in this stunning fabric, adding a touch of grandeur to the celebrations and showcasing the unique cultural heritage. Talun fabric not only beautifies the attire but also carries symbolic meaning, reinforcing connections with ancestors and cultural practices.

The Talun fabric exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship and versatility, originating from the Artocarpus odoratissimus tree, which thrives abundantly in the Borneo rainforest. 

The process begins with the careful harvesting of the tree bark, ensuring the layers remain intact. This bark is then pounded with a wooden mallet to achieve a smooth, flexible texture similar to cloth. The result is a strong and elastic material that is not only visually appealing but also functional. 

Talun fabric is celebrated for its durability and adaptability, making it ideal for a variety of applications, from traditional clothing to modern accessories, while showcasing the sustainable use of readily available natural resources.

Don't miss the opportunity to admire and appreciate the beauty of Talun fabric

Visiting Malinau or Krayan offers you the chance to see firsthand how Talun is made and used in the daily lives of the Dayak people. You can observe local artisans blending traditional techniques with creativity and explore a range of Talun products available for purchase. Bringing home a piece of Talun is more than just a souvenir; it’s a tangible connection to the rich cultural heritage of the region.

So, when you're in Northern Kalimantan, don't miss the opportunity to admire and appreciate the beauty of Talun fabric. It's an experience that will not only delight your senses but also deepen your understanding of the vibrant and colorful local culture.

-- Masri Sareb Putra