One of the Main Ethnics In Sarawak

IBAN

The Ibans form the largest percentage of Sarawak's population, making up some 30%. Once known as the legendary headhunters of Borneo, the Ibans of today are a hospitable and placid people. The Ibans are originally from Kalimantan, and so their culture and traditions as observed in Sarawak are very similar to the Dayaks in Kalimantan.

Because of their history as pirates and fishermen, they were conventionally referred to as the "Sea Dayaks". The Ibans dwell in longhouses, a stilted structure comprising many rooms housing a whole community of families.

The Ibans are renowned for their Pua Kumbu (traditional Iban weavings), silver craftings, wooden carvings and beadwork. Iban tattoos which were originally symbols of bravery for the Iban warriors have become amongst the most distinctive in the world. The Ibans are also famous for their tuak, a sweet intoxicating rice wine which is served during big celebrations and festive occasions.

The majority of Ibans practice Christianity. However, like most other ethnic groups in Sarawak, they still hold strong to their many traditional rituals and beliefs.

 

 The Iban traditional dance, the ngajat, is performed accompanied by the taboh and gendang, the Ibans' traditional music. 

 

 Pua Kumbu, the Iban traditional cloth, is used to decorate houses.