Children of Borneo

"Children of Borneo" by Edwin Herbert Gomes is a descriptive account that unfolds the world of the Dyak people in Borneo, showcasing their way of life and encounters with the outside world. The narrative starts by painting a picture of Borneo's landscapes and introduces the Dyak people, complete with their traditional clothing, customs, and the dark history of head-hunting and piracy. A pivotal moment is introduced with the arrival of James Brooke, the “White Rajah,” His presence reshaped the Dyak society by discouraging violence, bringing education, and introducing Christianity. Gomes uses his experiences as a missionary to show tradition and social change within the Dyak community, while laying the groundwork for understanding their beliefs, daily lives, and transformation.