Kalimantan is the Indonesian part of the island of Borneo, which is the third-largest island in the world.
It covers 73% of the island’s area and is divided into five provinces: West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, and North Kalimantan. The name Kalimantan is derived from the Sanskrit word "Kalamanthana" which means "burning weather island", referring to its hot and humid tropical climate. The region is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered orangutan. The Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan is a popular destination for tourists interested in seeing orangutans in their natural habitat.
The culture of Kalimantan is rich and diverse. The indigenous Dayak people are the largest ethnic group on the island and are known for their unique customs and traditions. They have a deep connection with nature and believe that everything in the world has a spirit. The Dayak people celebrate many festivals throughout the year, such as Gawai Dayak, which is a harvest festival celebrated in May or June.
Kalimantan has a long history of trade and commerce. The region was once an important hub for the spice trade, with traders from China, India, and Arabia visiting its ports. Today, Kalimantan is an important producer of oil, timber, and coal.
The cuisine of Kalimantan is also unique and flavorful. The food is heavily influenced by the local ingredients and spices. Some popular dishes include Soto Banjar, which is a chicken soup with rice cakes, and Ayam Panggang Dayak, which is grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices.