Keeping Abreast of Native Culture

Today's posting allows us to examine the (sadly) disappearing Iban native culture of the Sarawak longhouses. A few of our friends experienced some of this in their Skrang expedition three decades ago. Today, even photographs like these are getting hard to find, so many thanks to Nick C for hunting them down recently in Kuching.

Perhaps a word of caution to parents that some of the following pictures may be not be very suitable for youngsters below 18. The likely truth is they will be disappointed, as thru the wonders of the Internet, our young generation is already exposed to much hotter stuff than what these photographs portray ... ha ha ha! Still as Website Jaga, I must do my part in at least giving due warning.

Here we see a native maiden weaving a cloth with intricate designs. I've learnt thru this blog that one type of traditional tribal textile woven in longhouses of Borneo is called the "Pua Kumbu". These can have great value, playing an important role in tribal culture. The patterns reflect the cultural background of the Ibans, and also incorporate various environmental influences. It is said that even dreams have an impact in the creation of pua kumbu. Each unique pua design is created from many individual motifs whose meanings are combined to produce patterns and stories of ritual and spiritual power. Traditionally, it is believed that the weaving goddess Kumang gives the designs and patterns to the weaver through dreams. Typically lots of symbolic elements are included in the design. Many are woven to play a specific role in celebrations and ritual ceremonies. Master weavers were held in high esteem and only they were allowed to use certain powerful motifs.

The next photo shows an Iban maiden with a basket. If I'm not mistaken, she is de-husking uncooked rice, i.e. seperating the husk from the rice by tossing it up in the air and letting the wind carry off the much lighter husks. If anyone reading this is better versed in agricultural methods, please comment as that's about all I know.

This third photo shows a native ceremony during Gawai, the Iban new year celebrated in Sarawak on 1st June each year. My memories of Gawai are of visiting friends and enjoying many local Dayak delicacies washed down with copious amounts of Tuak.

xxx

So there you go - some tit bits on the disappearing local Sarawak Iban cultural scene.

xxx