Long ago, a group of Malay tribes from South India fled conflict and migrated to the island of Sumatra. Over time, these tribes intermarried and integrated with the island’s indigenous inhabitants, giving rise to new ethnic groups—including the Daya people.* Today, the Daya live in the Barisan Mountains, mostly at elevations between 100 and 500 meters, alongside the Komering and Aji peoples. It’s said that the Daya and Komering languages are very similar, and the Komering consider the Daya to be part of their extended ethnic group. However, some say the Komering disapprove of how casually the Daya manage their land.
From the Daya’s perspective, many acknowledge their lack of skill in land management. As a result, some choose to sell their land to Javanese buyers or hire Javanese workers to farm on their behalf. Their fields yield two to three harvests per year, and one-third to half of each harvest is given as wages to the workers.
The Daya population is around 95,000. Islam is a key part of their identity, and fewer than a thousand Daya are Christians. It is unclear whether a full Bible translation exists in the Daya language, but some online faith resources are available.
*Other related groups include the Komering, Ranau, and Lampung peoples.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You know every Daya person by name. You have counted the very hairs on their heads. You are their Creator, and You understand their spiritual needs and inner longings. We ask that their identity as Your children would become part of their core identity, and that they would find a new sense of belonging through faith in You. Lord, raise up and equip wise and loving workers who can develop effective mission strategies and build meaningful relationships with the Daya people, walking with them through every step of life. We pray that You would use online resources to draw more Daya to know You. Holy Spirit, remind us often to pray for their needs. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
