P112 Harmonizing Adat and Ambition: Redefining Work-Life Balance Through the Lens of Indigenous Dayak Women Leaders

Abstract

Western-centric models of work-life balance (WLB) often emphasize a strict, structural segmentation between professional and personal domains, frequently failing to capture the complex, collectivist realities of indigenous female leaders. This study investigates the intersection of cultural identity and professional ambition, redefining WLB through the lived experiences of high-achieving Dayak (specifically Iban) women leaders in Sarawak, Malaysia. Utilizing a qualitative analysis, data from eight prominent Iban women leaders operating within diverse public, educational, and corporate sectors were examined. The findings reveal that these leaders conceptualize WLB not as an equal division of time, but as a "sustainable integration" of corporate responsibilities, personal well-being, and cultural expectations. While extreme occupational workloads, advanced academic pursuits, and urgent institutional deadlines induce acute role strain, the informants' dynamic recovery strategies rely on active task delegation, open family communication, and targeted physical wellness activities. Crucially, their distinct identity as Dayak women profoundly anchors their management philosophy. Grounded in adat (tradition), deeply ingrained values of togetherness, mutual respect, and communal obligation act as empowering psychosocial resources rather than structural constraints. Rather than decoupling their leadership from their indigenous heritage, they deliberately weave cultural principles into their corporate frameworks to positively uplift their communities. Ultimately, this research demonstrates that contemporary indigenous women successfully "stand tall" in the modern workforce by leveraging community-centric social capital. This study challenges conventional Western paradigms and advocates for culturally integrated WLB frameworks in global organizational policy.