The Penan are an indigenous tribe of nomadic hunter-gatherers living in the remote jungles of Borneo, Malaysia. As a people with strong survival skills, they are renowned for their use of tajem—a poison on their blowpipe hunting darts which can be lethal when used correctly.
In an effort to learn from the Penan and immerse himself in their culture, filmmaker Raphael Treza volunteered to spend three months living amongst them. During his stay he documented their lifestyle and ways of life through a unique documentary experience.
This documentary offers viewers a rare glimpse into the ancient traditions that have been passed down over generations within this community. From learning how to hunt with traditional weapons to experiencing daily rituals like basket weaving and storytelling, this film is sure to captivate audiences and paint an intriguing picture of life as a Penan.
In addition to showcasing the Penan’s skillful integration with nature, this film also serves as an important reminder of humanity’s interconnectedness with our environment. Watching this documentary can provide insight into how our actions impact not only ourselves but also communities around the world; especially those living off the grid who depend on nature’s resources for survival.
We invite you to explore this inspiring story of resilience and tenacity by watching Raphael Treza’s documentary about The Penan – ‘Living with the Jungle Master’ – which is sure to leave you feeling connected with our planet in a whole new way.
