Exhibit Opening: Stories at Stake

Stories at Stake: 

A Transdisciplinary Approach to Preserving and Sharing Biocultural Heritage in East Kalimantan

Indonesia is moving its national capital from Jakarta, on the island of Java, to Nusantara, a new city under construction in the East Kalimantan region of Borneo. Major concerns about the capital’s relocation from Jakarta include ecological degradation, as well as local and Indigenous residents’ land rights and political power. 

Stories at Stake is a Mann Library exhibit inviting visitors to experience the sights and sounds of Nusantara, while exploring Indigenous stewardship of Kalimantan's forests. Organized by Claire Wu, the exhibit draws on research led by Cornell’s Dr. Wendy Erb and a diverse team of scientists, students, and local community partners since 2022.

Dr. Erb will open the event with a presentation about the project, which combines bioacoustics and anthropology to document how the development of Nusantara is reshaping the region’s forests, communities, and soundscapes.

The Opening will also feature an exclusive showing of Sound Guardians, a short documentary featuring our community partner, and Balik elder, Pak Abidin’s struggle to preserve his heritage and connection to the waters and lands of the region.