Wednesday, April 02, 2008

Sarawak Longhouse Adventure


From Travelzon blog:

It is almost a crime to come to without visiting an Iban longhouse. Iban hospitality is legendary, and visitors are guaranteed a good time. A longhouse is basically a terraced street of separate dwellings coveredby one roof, under the authority of a headman, or tuai rumah.

These longhouses may have anywhere between six to nearly a hundred units! Longhouses located in newly opened areas are typically made of bamboo and tree bark, but more established and prosperous longhouses can be made of precious and long-lasting hardwoods.

Primarily a communal group, the Ibans community practices their own brand of democracy, with the elders having an important role in major decisions. Each family lives in its separate apartment, or bilik, and communal activities take place outsideon the verandah, or ruai. This is also where single male visitors spend thenight. Female visitors and couples will be invited to stay inside the bilikwith the family.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: Sarawak Longhouse Adventure

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