The Iban’s Community perceptions of Pua Sungkit Weaving at Batang Ai

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the Iban community's perception of pua sungkit weaving in Batang Ai. The three objectives of this study are to identify pua sungkit in the Batang Ai area, examine the function of pua sungkit in the life of the Iban community and see the changes in the making of pua sungkit involving ten longhouses in Batang Ai, Lubok Antu. To achieve these objectives, researchers implement library search and field study by applying cultural and art theory. Cultural theory is related to the traditions, and daily activities performed, while art theory shows the heritage and handicrafts produced by the Iban community. The interview and questionnaire sessions conducted involved a total of fifty respondents and fourteen informants in explaining the relationship between the making of pua sungkit and the culture of the Iban community. The interview session found that some informants who were still healthy were willing to teach; the rest did not want due to their age. The questionnaire session showed that the majority of respondents agreed that pua sungkit is a substitute for pua kumbu. The findings show that there are still many among the Iban community who are interested and skilled in weaving and producing pua sungkit, the young Iban women are now trying to learn to weave. In conclusion, the weaving heritage is still relevant and preserved because of the functions of pua sungkit as a unique piece of traditional women's clothing, a special fabric used in religious ritual ceremonies, a wedding gift and as a decorative item at home. The implication is that there is a proposal to create a weaving training centre, to build a website as a marketing platform for the local pua sungkit weaving, and make it as one of the elective subjects in schools as to preserve and conserve the weaving cultural heritage.