Ladang: Preserving Traditional Shifting Cultivation

ABSTRACT

Shifting cultivation, known as ladang in Indonesia, is a traditional agricultural practice used for centuries by indigenous communities in tropical regions. Often called slash-and-burn agriculture, ladang involves clearing small forest patches, burning vegetation to enrich the soil, planting crops, and then allowing the land to regenerate as the farmers move on to another area. Though frequently misunderstood and criticized for contributing to deforestation, traditional ladang practices—when followed sustainably—can coexist with forest ecosystems and support biodiversity. This article examines how indigenous communities practice ladang in a sustainable manner, as well as its environmental impact, using insights from ethnographic studies and environmental research. Read More