Belajar Pulang (2024) | Film Dokumenter POLAHI

Summary

The video explores the lives of the Polahi people, an indigenous group in Gorontalo, Indonesia, who have maintained a primitive lifestyle for centuries. Historically, they were gatherers of rattan and resin but chose to retreat into the forests, distancing themselves from their ancestral homes. The narrative highlights their gradual integration into the surrounding communities, noting the modern mindset of some individuals, such as Op Bun, who strive for adaptation and connection with local society. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding legal identification and access to healthcare, which the local government aims to address for their normalization into broader society.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Polahi people, a sub-ethnic group of Gorontalo, have maintained a primitive lifestyle for hundreds of years, hiding from external society.
• 😀 Historically, during colonial times, the Polahi were known for collecting rattan and resin but chose to live in the forests to escape oppression.
• 😀 The term 'Polahi' in the Gorontalo language translates to 'fugitive,' reflecting their history of fleeing from forced labor and slavery.
• 😀 Since 2017, the Polahi have begun to interact more regularly with nearby communities, although language remains a barrier.
• 😀 Some Polahi individuals have married members of local communities, indicating a gradual integration into mainstream society.
• 😀 There is a notable connection between the Polahi and the surrounding villages, as they engage in agriculture and other local activities.
• 😀 Elderly Polahi leaders, like Op Bun, are seen as progressive, advocating for community meetings and integration with modern society.
• 😀 The Polahi community faces challenges such as a lack of official identification, which complicates access to healthcare and government services.
• 😀 Local government officials express a desire for the Polahi to live more normally and receive attention and support from higher authorities.
• 😀 Efforts are being made to help Polahi individuals obtain identification and integrate into civil society, with some already receiving KTPs (identity cards).

Q & A

What is the Polahi sub-ethnic group known for?

The Polahi are known for their primitive lifestyle that has persisted for hundreds of years, originally involved in gathering rattan and resin during the colonial era.

Why did the Polahi choose to live in the forests?

They chose to live in the forests to escape forced labor and slavery, distancing themselves from their ancestral homes.

How have the Polahi adapted their lifestyle over time?

Over time, some Polahi have integrated with local communities, with individuals marrying local people and adopting some modern customs while retaining their unique cultural identity.

What challenges do the Polahi face in terms of identity and healthcare?

Many Polahi lack official identification documents, such as KTP (identity cards), which complicates their access to healthcare and other government services.

What efforts are being made by local government to assist the Polahi?

Local government efforts include helping Polahi obtain identity documents and providing healthcare access, as well as encouraging their integration into society.

What is the significance of the term 'Polahi' in the Gorontalo language?

In the Gorontalo language, 'Polahi' means 'escapee,' which reflects their historical context of fleeing from colonial pressures.

How has the relationship between the Polahi and local villagers evolved?

The relationship has evolved positively, with increased interactions and some Polahi individuals forming familial ties with locals, enhancing mutual understanding.

What role does the elder 'Opa' play in the Polahi community?

Opa, as an elder, has a modern outlook and participates in community meetings, advocating for the Polahi's needs and assisting in their adaptation to society.

What are some traditional practices of the Polahi people?

Traditionally, the Polahi used natural materials for clothing and depended on forest resources for food, such as fishing and foraging.

How do local leaders view the future of the Polahi community?

Local leaders are hopeful for the Polahi to lead normalized lives and receive the necessary attention and support from the government for their social and health needs.