LUST for LIFE

Sarawak is home to 28 main ethnic groups, each with their own language and culture. The Ibans, numbering about 650,000 in Sarawak, constitute the major ethnic group. They are also found in Brunei and parts of Kalimantan,

During the colonial days, the British called them Sea Dayaks. The Ibans were traditionally animist. Today, they are mainly Christians although many observe both Christian and traditional ceremonies, particularly at weddings or festive occasions.

This photo shows an Iban ‘warrior’ performing a graceful dance at the Sarawak Cultural Village. A big contrast to the olden days when until about 100 years ago, the Ibans were a warrior race, feared by others for their headhunting practice.

Spread over 14 acres of lush tropical greenery, the Sarawak Cultural Village, dubbed a “living museum” is tucked away on the foothills of the legendary Mount Santubong, 35 km from Kuching. It is a fascinating cultural showcase of the state’s major racial groups, heritage and lifestyles. There are two daily cultural shows performed in an air-conditioned mini-theatre.

The purists among us may prefer to experience life in a real tribal longhouse. This, of course, can be easily arranged by the local tour agencies.

[Kodak LS633: 1/60 sec @ f/4]