Tawai: A Voice from the Forest

Bruce is able to convey a meaningful and thought provoking documentary that not only stems from the heart but challenges our value systems. The sadness that is evoked by witnessing the slow demise of a Hunter Gatherer tribe from the forests of Borneo in Malaysia is very moving. Bruce captures their emotion and shows us the simplicity in which they live their daily lives, in where time stands still and is not merely a western construct but a way of life. According to Bruce, it is the closest experience he has had of living in an egalitarian society. No one tells anyone what to do, there is no ego and if anyone succumbs to one, they soon realise their folly and correct themselves or face the repercussions of not fitting in. Balance is restored and the tribe go about their business as before. Sounds like a plan for the future, if only we could get over our selfishness and greed.