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DTE publications

Down to Earth No 59  November 2003

Indigenous peoples made important gains at the fifth World Parks Congress (WPC) held in Durban, South Africa, 8-17 September 2003. Over 130 indigenous peoples' representatives attended this major event, organised by the IUCN, which gathers together all the major conservation organisations every ten years.

A statement issued by indigenous peoples at this year's congress highlighted the fact that their internationally recognised rights have been "systematically violated in protected areas, including the right to life".

Down to Earth No 59  November 2003


By Idham Kurniawan* In March this year, a new regional organisation for Indigenous Peoples on Java was established - Paguyuban Masyarakat Adat Pulau Java, or PAMA PUJA.

When we talk about Indigenous Peoples, many people immediately think of people who live in remote areas on islands outside Java, such as Kalimantan and Papua. They think that on Java, there are no longer peoples who live according to traditional values and who hold on firmly to theiradat (customary) way of life.

Down to Earth No 59  November 2003


Interview with Idham Kurniawan

 

What are the main problems facing Masyarakat Adat [indigenous peoples] in Java today?

The main problem is that they have no recognition of their customary territory and much of this has been taken over - mainly by Perhutani (state-owned forestry company) - for plantations. The second problem is the government's failure to recognise their adat beliefs and institutions.

Down to Earth No 59  November 2003


A notorious dam project, designed during the Suharto era, is due to go ahead next year despite opposition from local people and NGOs supporting them.

The Jatigede dam, in Sumedang, West Java, is being billed as the answer to flooding and drought problems in the northern lowlands of West Java. The government claims it will provide 90,000 hectares of farmland with irrigated water, increase the rice harvest as well as generate electricity for industry and supply clean drinking water for residents.

Down to Earth No 59  November 2003


Further blow to draft NRM bill

A coalition of civil society groups protested over Nabiel Makarim's controversial remarks in September, which were dismissive about the existing draft for a new natural resources management (NRM) bill.

Down to Earth No. 58, August 2003


by Erma S. Ranik

During 2002, the West Kalimantan Indigenous Peoples Alliance (AMA Kalbar) organised a series of workshops especially for Dayak women in six districts in West Kalimantan. The workshops were aimed at greater involvement of Dayak women in various fields.

They were organised by AMA Kalbar for three reasons. First, up to now, the public role of women (especially indigenous women) has been negligible.