ULM Sociology Students Bring Innovation to Halong Dayak Traditional Village
BALANGAN – Ten students from the Sociology Study Program, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM), have been conducting a Community Service Program (KKN) in Aniungan Village, Halong District, Balangan Regency, since mid-July 2025. Their presence marks a historic moment, as this is the first time the Halong Dayak traditional village has been a ULM KKN location.
The two-month program aims to strengthen community capacity while strengthening the relationship between academia and local wisdom. ULM students have designed a number of activities, ranging from strengthening farmer groups, waste management education, and conducting a census for village social mapping.
“We feel very fortunate to be able to learn directly from the Aniungan Village community. This is a rare opportunity to delve into local wisdom while making a real contribution in our field,” said Khaidir, Head of the 2025 ULM KKN Group, Artha D’Aniungan Team.
One memorable moment was the students’ meeting with Gupen, the Dayak Halong Traditional Leader who oversees Aniungan, Hauwai, and Kapul Villages. With a warm and wise demeanor, he shared his perspective on life, traditional values, and ways to maintain harmony between humans and nature.
“We are delighted that the students came and learned together. We hope that this Community Service Program (KKN) will not only be a short program, but will also bring enlightenment and benefits to the village. The students can become role models for the community,” said Gupen.
The presence of ULM students in this village, nestled in the heart of Kalimantan’s tropical forests, was warmly welcomed by the residents. They adapted to village life, followed the rhythm of nature, and established intense communication with local leaders. This interaction is expected to foster a shared awareness of the importance of developing the village without abandoning its cultural roots.
With a spirit of collaboration between student innovation and the wisdom of the indigenous community, ULM’s Thematic Sociology Community Service Program in Aniungan Village is the first step towards sustainable development in the interior of South Kalimantan.
