[Jakarta, 6 February 2025] The struggle of Indigenous Peoples to defend their ancestral lands and forests now resonates through a powerful and moving musical work. Tuan Tigabelas and King of Borneo have collaborated on a new song titled “SUAR,” a song of resistance that amplifies the voices of Indigenous Peoples as they defend their customary rights and resist the dispossession of their rights and living spaces.
The song portrays the reality of Indigenous Peoples’ ongoing struggle in the face of threats from extractive industry expansion, deforestation, and policies that disregard Indigenous rights. With passionate lyrics and a strong rhythm, “SUAR” has become a symbol of resistance and hope for Indigenous communities across the archipelago.
Tuan Tigabelas, one of Indonesia’s leading rappers and the voice behind Last Roar, stated that “SUAR” is an expression of solidarity with Indigenous Peoples fighting to defend their lands. “This song is not merely entertainment, but a call for everyone to realize that Indigenous Peoples’ rights are under threat. We must stand together with them, protect the forests, and protect life,” said Tuan Tigabelas.
King of Borneo, a band from Kapuas Hulu, West Kalimantan, emphasized that the song represents voices that have long been marginalized. “Indigenous Peoples are on the front lines of protecting forests and ecosystems. Without them, the balance of nature would be disrupted. We dedicate this song as a form of respect and support so that the struggle of Indigenous Peoples can continue,” said King of Borneo.
Herkulanus Sutomo, Acting Chair of the Indigenous Peoples Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN) Kapuas Hulu, who was also involved in the launch of the song, emphasized that Indigenous voices must be heard more widely. He stressed that land, forests, and rivers are not merely sources of livelihood, but are also integral to Indigenous identity and cultural continuity.
“For us, the forest is not just a resource, but also our home and a legacy from our ancestors. Losing the forest means losing everything—our traditions, our lives, and the future of our children and grandchildren,” said Herkulanus Sutomo. “We invite all stakeholders, including local governments, to stand together with Indigenous Peoples in fighting for Indigenous interests in securing and managing their customary territories.”
Herkulanus Sutomo also highlighted the importance of passing the long-delayed Indigenous Peoples Bill. “The Indigenous Peoples Bill must be passed immediately so that our rights are no longer marginalized. Without a clear legal framework, Indigenous Peoples will continue to be victims of land grabbing, criminalization, and the neglect of their basic rights,” he emphasized.
MADANI Berkelanjutan fully supports the release of the song “SUAR” as part of a campaign to advance Indigenous rights and protect environmental sustainability. “This song reflects a very real crisis. Indigenous Peoples are the last guardians of forests. If they fall, we will all be submerged in climate disaster,” said Nadia Hadad, Executive Director of MADANI Berkelanjutan.
The song “SUAR” is not only a work of art, but also a call to action. “We call on the wider public to care more deeply about Indigenous Peoples’ rights, and about the recognition and protection of Indigenous Peoples. The struggle of Indigenous Peoples is our shared struggle—for justice, for the environment, and for a better future,” Nadia Hadad asserted.
The song “SUAR” is now available to listen to on the King of Borneo YouTube channel.
