Mahakam River Connects Wildlife, Culture and Life in East Kalimantan
- 30 Sep 2026 17:14 WIB
- Voice of Indonesia
RRI.CO.ID, East Kalimantan - Mahakam River connects wildlife, culture, and economic life across East Kalimantan. Stretching about 920 kilometers, the river flows from the Muller Mountains toward the Makassar Strait.
The river passes through areas including West Kutai, Kutai Kartanegara, and Samarinda. Its long course makes Mahakam an important waterway connecting communities across different parts of East Kalimantan.
Mahakam is also home to the endangered Mahakam River dolphin, locally known as pesut Mahakam. The species lives in calm, deep waters and serves as an indicator of the river ecosystem’s health.
Beyond its ecological role, Mahakam supports economic activities along its banks and waterways. Coal, forest products, and other commodities are transported through the river, supporting ports, industrial areas, and traditional markets.
The river also carries the cultural heritage of Kutai and Dayak communities living along its banks. Traditional houses, local customs, and cultural ceremonies reflect the enduring relationship between communities and the Mahakam.
One distinctive feature of Mahakam is its brown-colored water, influenced by peat soil and fine sediment carried downstream. Despite its appearance, the river continues to support ecosystems and various activities for surrounding communities.
Mahakam also provides experiences for visitors exploring East Kalimantan’s natural and cultural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy riverside sunsets in Samarinda, explore floating houses, or travel along the river by traditional wooden boats.
The annual Mahakam Festival also celebrates the river through cultural parades, boat competitions, and traditional music and dance performances. These activities highlight the river’s connection with local communities and cultural identity.
Mahakam River therefore represents more than a waterway across East Kalimantan. Its wildlife, economic activities, and cultural traditions offer a glimpse into the diverse life surrounding Indonesia’s major rivers.
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