One of the most beautiful gifts we can give our children is a strong sense of identity — of knowing who they are and where they come from. As a mom and dad born and raised in Borneo, I’ve always known that one day, I would share our heritage with my son — not just through words, but through stories, traditions, food, and lived experiences.
Because Borneo is more than a place on the map. It’s home. It’s heart. It’s history.
Why Our Roots Matter
Growing up in Borneo, I was surrounded by lush rainforests, rich traditions, and a vibrant mix of cultures. We didn’t just celebrate festivals — we celebrated togetherness. The kampung spirit, the respect for elders, the deep connection to nature — these values shaped who I am today.
Now, living far from home and raising my child in a very different world, I feel an even greater responsibility to preserve our heritage and pass it on to the next generation.
Sharing the Stories of Our Ancestors
I tell my son about his great-grandparents who lived close to the land, who hunted, fished, and grew their own food. About how our people would sit around the fire telling folktales, dancing to the beat of gongs, and crafting stories into beadwork and textiles.
I want him to know that our people — the Dayak, the Kadazan-Dusun, the Melanau, the Iban, the Bidayuh, and so many more — carry wisdom in their silence and strength in their humility.
Cooking Our Culture
One of the easiest (and most delicious!) ways to teach my son about Borneo is through food. From pansuh (bamboo-cooked meat) to linut (sago starch), to the rich flavors of tuak (rice wine) at harvest festivals, I bring these dishes into our kitchen. We taste, we talk, we connect.
Even if he doesn’t like everything (yet!), I want him to feel proud that this is part of who he is.
Language, Songs, and Little Things
I teach him words from our local dialects — just simple ones for now. “Terima kasih,” “makan,” “oman,” "ake mala' iko" and I play songs I grew up with, tell him about the Gawai, Kebana and Kaamatan festivals, and show him photos of longhouses and mountain trails from back home.
To him, they may seem small now. But one day, he’ll realize they were threads — weaving him back to his roots.
Being Borneo-Born, Mom-Raised
My son is growing up in a world very different from the one I knew, but that doesn’t mean he has to lose his heritage. In fact, I believe it makes his identity even richer.
He is a modern child with ancient roots.
And it’s my honor — and my joy — to help him discover who he is.
Our roots don’t hold us back — they ground us. They remind us of where we began so we can grow stronger, taller, and more beautifully.
To all the moms out there wanting to share your culture with your children: start with your stories. Your food. Your photos. Your songs. Your memories.
Your child is listening. ❤️
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