Reviving 'Ensama' Spirit Among the Iban Batang Kanyau and Tamambaloh

A Historic Day for the Tamambaloh and Iban Batang Kanyau Peoples

On Wednesday, 19 March 2025, history was made for the Tamambaloh and Iban Batang Kanyau communities. A longstanding dispute over customary land management and territorial rights between the two Indigenous groups has finally begun to move toward a resolution. 

At the heart of this breakthrough is the revival of ‘Ensama’, an Iban word that signifies a deep bond of kinship and unity—a value that had gradually faded over time. 

The agreement marks an important first step toward resolving long-standing issues between the two communities. A key point of the consensus is a shared desire to pass down the joint stewardship of natural resources to future generations—rather than conflict, which only deepens divisions and erodes relationships.

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A Long Journey Rooted in Custom

The Tamambaloh and Iban Batang Kanyau peoples are Dayak groups organized through traditional institutions known as ketemenggungan/ketamanggungan. The Tamambaloh ketamanggungan spans six customary territories: Tamao, Pulau Manak, Banua Martinus, Banua Ujung, Saujung Giling Manik, and Ulak Pauk. Meanwhile, the Iban Batang Kanyau ketemenggungan is based in the village of Menua Sadap. 

The dispute has persisted for decades, centered on the customary lands in Dusun Karangan Bunut, Menua Sadap Village—located at the upstream of the Tamambaloh-Batang Kanyau watershed, including areas inside and outside the Betung Kerihun National Park (TNBK), and under the jurisdiction of Menua Sadap Village. 

Prior to the imposition of village administrative boundaries, the two communities coexisted peacefully, managing their natural resources in traditional and sustainable ways. However, modern boundary policies unintentionally created tension, particularly around land use and natural resource management. 

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A Path Forward Through Dialogue and Tradition 

Both communities recognized the urgency of resolving the issue to prevent further conflict. After a lengthy process, they agreed to hold a familial dialogue grounded in the spirit of Ensama. 

One of the key outcomes was the mutual commitment to maintain strong familial bonds in all future decision-making processes—especially those concerning the use and stewardship of natural resources in Karangan Bunut. These decisions will align with both customary laws and applicable government regulations. 

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A Formal Agreement Signed

This consensus was formalized in a Joint Agreement signed by customary leaders and village government representatives from both the Tamambaloh and Iban Batang Kanyau communities. 

As Pak Jantan, Chair of the Menua Sadap Village Council, said:

"If you hold a burning coal, hold it until it becomes ash."

symbolizing their unwavering commitment to fully resolve the matter.