Melanau workshop explores ancient customs and traditions

MIRI: A two-day workshop dedicated to preserving the customs and traditions of the Melanau community here commenced on Saturday, drawing scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the Melanau community.

Titled “Bengkel Adat Melanau Miri: Kajian Adat ‘Pengumpulan Maklumat Adat on Settlement”, the event aimed to ensure the survival and understanding of Melanau customs in the face of modern changes.

The chief facilitator of the Melanau Wedding Customs Committee of the Miri Melanau Association (PMM), Saibi Marawai, spearheaded the workshop.

This initiative follows a suggestion from the Council for Native Customs and Traditions (MAIS) to document traditional Melanau customs.

The workshop delved into topics on customs, beliefs, cultural practices, and ancient traditions of the Melanau people.

These discussions aimed to prevent the disappearance of these practices over time and ensure the younger generation understands their historical significance.

“The construction and role of old houses, in accordance with Melanau beliefs and practices, is a significant topic,” Saibi explained.

“Understanding the connection between these structures and the spiritual beliefs of the Melanau people is crucial. Observing customs and avoiding violations of ‘Ipok’ (taboos) ensures smooth and favourable outcomes,” he said on Sunday.

Other topics include the do’s and don’ts of home renovation, where changes to ‘palei’ (taboo) structures require specific rituals to appease the spirits.

Additionally, the workshop addressed grave care, emphasising the prohibitions associated with grave sites, and the importance of following taboos in new land constructions.

“The knowledge shared here will be invaluable for daily life practices,” said Saibi.

The workshop also aimed to compile information from Melanau communities across various divisions in Sarawak.

This compilation will serve as a reference, with the eventual goal of developing settlement laws in collaboration with MAIS.

“We envision a comprehensive reference book that encapsulates the customs of the Melanau from all divisions,” said Saibi.

“This will be an enduring resource for preserving our heritage.”

Also present at the event were Federation of Melanau Associations Sarawak deputy president II and PMM Adviser I, Dato Alexander Maiyor, and PMM president Abdullah Jaini.