The Tarakan Tribute

With such a large number of islands forming the bulk of the Indonesian peninsula, it is easy to overlook the fact that their territory on Borneo is also home to quite a few smaller islands of note, too.

The Tidung – a Dayak grouping who can trace their ancestry to the interior regions of Borneo – reside to the Island’s northeast as well as the smaller surrounding islets such as the Sebatik, Nunukan, and Bunyu Islands for example. As a result, it comes as no surprise that a strong and healthy respect for the sea is deeply embedded in society here. A means for their survival, a fishing and inter-island trade industry were established long ago beginning with pirates and traders. This was further strengthened with the arrival of the Dutch colonists, followed by the Japanese military during World War

II. Fast forward 80 years to the modern era, and the islands are back under Indonesian jurisdiction and governance.

As Borneo is home to many Dayak groups who possess more similarities than differences, it is not surprising that this translates to their festivals too. Their festivals usually consist of colourful dance and music performances, feasting on traditional delicacies, games and competitions of skill and strength, and sometimes beauty pageants showcasing stunning young ladies in traditional garments.

Emerging from the depths at 3.3547° latitude North and 117.5965° longitude East is the Island of Tarakan, home to the Iraw Tengkayu Festival. A biennial event once upon a time, the governor in 2020 announced a shift to host the festival annually. This additional flexibility is a boon for boosting tourism numbers via the potential arrivals wanting to visit and watch the really cool ceremonies and activities associated with the festivities. The main highlights of the Iraw Tengkayu, which is also tied to the Tarakan City Day celebration, are the street parade and the Padaw Tuju Dulung boat ritual.

A tribute to the divine by the faithful, an ornamental showpiece vessel boasting the Tidung colours of yellow, green, and red is filled with offerings. Bearing the boat across Amal Beach and leaving it adrift in shallow waters, streamers and flags flap energetically in the strong ocean breeze as this physical act of respect gradually disappears further and further into the distance.

Iraw Tengkayu Festival

Where to stay: Grand Citra Hotel Mutiara Hotel Surya Golden Hotel