Kadazan-Dusun
Tribe The Kadazandusun is the largest ethnic group in Sabah, comprising both the Kadazan and Dusun tribes and their 40 sub-groups. They are also known as "Mamasok", which means "originals" or "indigenous people", respectively. Traditionally, they are rice farmers and celebrate a 1 month long Harvest Festival (Pesta Kaamatan) every year during May. The festival celebrates and honors Huminodun, the sacrificed daughter of God (Kinoingan) in exchange for a bountiful harvest.
The Kadazan-Dusun believe they are the descendants of Nunuk Ragang (The Red Banyan Tree) and they believe that everything has life - the rocks, trees, and rivers are all living things. This belief is the cornerstone of their livelihood and rituals to maintain the balance, order, and harmony between people and the
environment.
Iban
The Ibans comprise the largest percentage (almost 34%) of Sarawak's
population. Formerly reputed to be the most formidable headhunters on the
island of Borneo, the Ibans of today are a generous, hospitable, and placid
people. Because of their history as pirates and fishermen, Ibans were conventionally referred to as the "Sea Dayaks". The early Iban settlers migrated from Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo south of Sarawak, via the Kapuas River. They crossed over the Kelingkang range and set up homes in the river valleys of Batang Ai, the Skrang River, Saribas, and the Rajang River.
The Ibans dwell in longhouses, stilted structures with a large number of rooms
housing a whole community of families. An Iban longhouse may still display
head trophies or antu pala. These suspended heads mark tribal victories and
were a source of honor. The Dayak Iban ceased practicing headhunting in the
1930s. The Ibans are renowned for their Pua Kumbu (traditional Iban weavings), silver craft, wooden carvings, and beadwork. Iban tattoos, which were originally symbols of bravery among Iban warriors, have become among the most distinctive in the world. The Ibans are also famous for a sweet rice wine called tuak, which is served during big celebrations and festive occasions. The large majority of Ibans practice Christianity. However, like most other ethnic groups in Sarawak, they still observe many of their traditional rituals and beliefs. Sarawak celebrates colorful festivals such as the Gawai Dayak (harvest festival), Gawai Kenyalang (hornbill, or the god of war festival, harvest paddy, and Gawai Antu (festival of the dead).
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