By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 16: The ‘Mangkung Tiang’ (house warming) ceremony is a unique customary practice passed down by the Iban community, says MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
The Kapit MP in a statement recently said it is held when moving into a new house or longhouse with the purpose of blessing it.
On May 13, Nanta, who is also Works Minister attended the ‘Mangkung Tiang’ ceremony for Tatai Emas longhouse in Sungai Amang Ulu, Kapit.
He said the event started with a miring ceremony and was followed by a feast together with members of the family and longhouse residents.
He said that the new and modern 25-door longhouse has been upgraded from a wooden to concrete longhouse.
According to him, the longhouse was constructed with half of the cost paid by the government while the other half is borne by the residents.
“Even though it (longhouse) looks modern, the customs, traditions and close family relationships and friendships are still maintained to this day,” he added. — DayakDaily
