Oral literature and social identity of the Dayak Kanayatn: the extinction of oral literature in the midst of contemporary cultural trends

Abstract

This research has a significant contribution to the understanding of changes in the oral literary practices of the Dayak Kanayatn and their impact on their social identity. A qualitative research method was employed to collect data through the interpretation of semiotic texts of Dayak Kanayatn oral literature. The importance of this research lies in addressing the influence of contemporary cultural issues, including social media and urbanization, which have shifted the interest of the younger generation from traditional oral literature to modern forms of entertainment. However, the gap that this research aims to address is the imbalance between the younger generation’s interest in traditional oral literature and the influence of contemporary culture, which tends to lean towards modern entertainment forms. The research aims to highlight the challenges of maintaining oral literary practices in the era of globalization and continuous modernization. Research findings also reveal that oral literary practices remain crucial in preserving the social identity of the Dayak Kanayatn. Despite facing challenges, this community continues to strive to preserve their oral literature through various initiatives such as cultural education in local schools and literary festivals. Thus, this research provides in-depth insights into social and cultural identity among the Dayak Kanayatn and their efforts to preserve and strengthen their social identity through the heritage of oral literature. The study underscores the importance of preserving Dayak local culture amidst the ongoing trends of globalization and modernization. By highlighting this gap, the research offers a better understanding of how the Dayak Kanayatn community can overcome these challenges to preserve their cultural heritage.

Keywords

• Culture
• Dayak Kanayatn
• oral literature
• socialidentity
• Gaston Bacquet, School of Social and Political Science, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
• Anthropology - Soc Sci