Cultural Adaptation in the Utilization of Public Open Spaces in the Riverside Settlements of Kahayan River, Palangka Raya City

Abstract The riverside settlement along the Kahayan River in Palangka Raya is inhabited predominantly by the Dayak, Banjar, and Javanese ethnic groups, with diverse backgrounds in terms of religion, education, and income. Despite the Javanese community’s land-based cultural background, which contrasts with the river-based traditions of the Dayak and Banjar, they have adapted to the local culture. This study explores how these ethnic communities utilize public open spaces (POS) in the riverside settlements along the Kahayan River, with the objective of understanding the differences in usage patterns. Using a qualitative approach with field observations and in-depth interviews, the research reveals significant differences in POS usage among these communities. The Dayak and Banjar communities make year-round use of POS, even during floods and the dry season, while the Javanese, influenced by their land-based traditions, predominantly use these spaces during the dry season. These findings underscore the role of cultural differences in shaping the utilization of public spaces within the Kahayan River’s riverside settlements.