KUCHING, Oct 29: Saratok incumbent Datuk Ali Biju hopes initiatives to promote original Iban community handicraft products, especially the ‘Pua Kumbu’ will continue to grow.
‘Pua Kumbu’ consists of a multicolored ceremonial cotton cloth, typically intricately patterned and woven with great care by the Iban.
In his Facebook post today, Ali said the ‘Pua Kumbu’ weavers also should be more creative in marketing their products.
“This is to ensure that they continue to have a place in the hearts of all parties, especially for our new generation for the sake of heritage sustainability in the future,” he said.
On Friday (Oct 28), Ali visited Rh Mawat Anak Lampas in Bratong Atas, Roban to see firsthand the weaving process of ‘Pua Kumbu’ cloth by the local Iban community during the ‘Pua Kumbu’ weaving programme held on Friday (Oct 28).
The Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources pointed out that, as a traditional woven cloth that has been inherited from generation to generation by the Iban community in Sarawak, ‘Pua Kumbu’ plays a very important role and is often used for various ceremonies such as births, marriages, funerals, illness treatment and also during agricultural ceremonies.
“‘Pua Kumbu’ woven in Rh. Mawat still uses traditional weaving tools that require the weavers to go through many processes such as tying, dyeing, stretching the thread before weaving to ensure its quality and durability,” he added.
Meanwhile, during the visit, Ali also handed over contributions Rh Mawat Women Bureau, Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) Roban branch, including Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Kabong and Roban branches. — DayakDaily
