International Journal of Sciences: Basic and Applied Research
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to reveal the use of mingkuen and kuak in the traditional management of natural resources. The method employed in this study is the ethno-directed sampling method. Mingkuen and kuak are types of plants used as the main material in making prohibition signs. Mingkuen is the local name of Scizostachyum lima (Poaceae), while kuak is the local name of Polyscias nodosa (Araliaceae). The local name of these two species is used as the name for the prohibition signs made. The tradition of using mingkuen and kuak is a form of natural resource management practice that has been perfomed by the Hatam people from generation to generation. Both prohibition signs serve as a means to prevent the outsiders from accessing the owners’ resources. For the Hatam people, the two prohibition signs have significant historical and cultural values. Therefore, the existence of mingkuen and kuak is highly appreciated and respected by the Hatam people. Traditional knowledge is an important part of sustainable development, and therefore it must be preserved
