Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents an analysis of Brooke’s travels, observations, and attitudes while in Sulawesi, and attempts to relate to the later actions in Borneo. It attempts to understand the kongsi system that neither conformed to nor abided by the local Malay socio-political setting, and the state of anomie they created against the local background. The book examines the manner and strategy employed by the British Borneo Civil Affairs Unit and the British Military Administration, in addressing the sensitive and often controversial issue of wartime collaboration and inter-ethnic relations. It explores and explains the complex interrelations of rank and egalitarian ideologies. The book addresses how the opening up of democratic spaces provided by the development of new communication technology may propel Dayak political integration on how will move forward.