"The Tula-an Concept": River-Based Indigenous Conservation Local Wisdom & Practices in Bulungan Traditional Settlements

Abstract

This study introduces and conceptualizes Tula-an-an indigenous river-based conservation model rooted in the spatial practices, ecological ethics, and cosmological worldview of the Bulungan ethnic community in Tanjung Palas Tengah, North Kalimantan. Positioned along the Kayan River, Bulungan traditional settlements exhibit a tripartite spatial hierarchy: water zone, buffer zone, and lowland settlement zone, each imbued with symbolic meanings and ecological functions. Employing a qualitative descriptive case study approach, the research integrates participatory observation, spatial mapping, and in-depth interviews with local elders and residents. Findings reveal that conservation practices are governed by customary laws and rituals rather than formal policies, including spatial taboos (tebaliung, lubuk larangan), ritual observances (bebalian, bebaliung), sacred markers (batu belian, sungai keramat), and sustainable livelihood techniques (payak, tugal, selective fishing). These collectively form the Tula-an system-an integrated ethnoecological and ethnoconservation knowledge framework that guides spatial orientation, resource use, and spiritual relationships with the river. This concept challenges technocratic conservation paradigms by emphasizing relational, adaptive, and culturally embedded approaches to river stewardship. The study advocates for formal recognition of such indigenous frameworks to support inclusive, resilient, and context-specific environmental governance in riparian ecosystems.