By Ruth Diane Ujang, Maisarah Hasbullah
In the heart of Sarawak, the story of the Bakun Hydroelectric Power Dam extends beyond the creation of concrete structures and electricity. It tells of the resilience, struggles, and enduring spirit of the indigenous communities who have called this land home for generations. As development began to take shape, it came at a heavy cost for the Orang Ulu and Penan peoples, who had to confront significant changes to their way of life.
When the Bakun Dam was built, nearly 10,000 indigenous people were forced to leave their ancestral lands. The new settlement at Sungai Asap—the Bakun Resettlement Scheme (BRS)—was meant to provide a fresh start. However, for many, it has fallen short of expectations. The transition did more than physically displace them; it disrupted their way of life, leading to feelings of loss and disconnection.
An online survey we conducted among the residents reveals mixed results: some aspects of life have improved, but many still face poverty, lack of employment opportunities, and a loss of cultural ties. The move towards a modern environment has led to cultural erosion, where traditional practices and values have been overshadowed by outside influences.
As we explore the survey results, it becomes clear that these issues are deeply interconnected and continue to impact the community in multiple ways. One of the most pressing concerns is the economic struggle many families face. The limited availability of agricultural land has made it difficult for residents to sustain themselves through traditional means. Moreover, the lack of diverse job opportunities has left many without stable income, perpetuating a cycle of poverty. This economic instability weakens the foundation of the community, leaving many feeling frustrated and uncertain about their future.
In addition to economic challenges, the residents continue to face significant obstacles in terms of healthcare and overall wellbeing. Despite some improvements in living conditions, access to essential services such as healthcare, hospitals, sanitation systems, and schools remains insufficient. The absence of proper healthcare infrastructure leaves many in the community vulnerable to preventable diseases, while inadequate sanitation and education systems hinder their quality of life and future prospects. These gaps in basic services contribute to a growing sense of disenfranchisement among the residents.
Cultural identity is another area at risk. As the younger generation becomes more exposed to modern influences, they are increasingly distanced from their cultural heritage. Traditional practices and values that once defined the community are gradually fading, and without efforts to preserve them, the risk of losing these cultural treasures grows. The disconnection from their roots is not only a loss for the community’s identity but also a threat to the continuity of their way of life, which has been passed down for generations.
The survey findings highlight the need for immediate action. The following recommendations aim to address the critical challenges faced by the community:
- Empower the Community: Creating platforms for residents to voice their concerns and contribute to decision-making is essential. Local involvement in development ensures that initiatives reflect their needs and aspirations.
- Invest in Livelihoods: By increasing job opportunities and offering skills training rooted in local traditions, the community can regain economic independence while preserving its cultural identity.
- Preserve Indigenous Cultures: Promoting cultural education and engaging younger generations with their heritage can ensure the survival and growth of their traditions.
- Revitalize Infrastructure: Improvements to essential services like healthcare, education, and sanitation will significantly enhance the quality of life for the residents.
- Protect Land Rights: Advocating for policies that safeguard indigenous land ownership is crucial for ensuring sustainable, meaningful engagement with the environment.
A path forward
The findings from the survey highlight the urgent need for action in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the communities at Sungai Asap. Moving forward, it is essential to prioritize local participation in decision-making, ensuring that the voices of residents are heard and integrated into future development projects. Empowering the community to take an active role in shaping their future can lead to more meaningful, sustainable outcomes. This aligns with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), which emphasizes the importance of inclusive decision-making and accountable institutions.
Moreover, fostering economic independence through skill-building programs and expanding job opportunities will enable the community to rebuild its foundation while maintaining its cultural identity. This directly supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), as it focuses on creating economic opportunities that are inclusive and sustainable. Additionally, investing in the preservation of indigenous practices and values through educational initiatives will help reconnect younger generations to their heritage. This ties into SDG 4 (Quality Education), which calls for ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education that empowers all individuals, particularly in the preservation of cultural diversity.
Strengthening infrastructure, particularly in healthcare, education, and essential services, will not only improve living standards but also address pressing challenges like inadequate healthcare and sanitation. These efforts align with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), which aims to ensure access to quality healthcare for all, as well as SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), which advocates for universal access to safe water and sanitation services.
Finally, protecting land rights and ensuring that policies respect indigenous ownership is crucial for long-term sustainability. By reinforcing indigenous land rights, we can promote environmental sustainability and social equity, in line with SDG 15 (Life on Land), which calls for the protection, restoration, and promotion of sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. These actions—when undertaken collectively—can transform the lives of the communities, fostering an environment where they thrive with dignity, respect, and opportunity.
The time to act is now. Together, we can create a future where the residents of Sungai Asap are not just surviving but flourishing.
The authors are from the Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, and can be reached at maisara@um.edu.my