HISTORY | Ibans of S'wak: from warriors to nation builders

The Ibans, historically referred to as Sea Dayaks due to their past involvement in sea piracy, are the largest ethnic group in Sarawak, numbering approximately 750,000 - which is about 29 percent of the state’s population. As an indigenous Dayak group, the Ibans are renowned for their courage, in...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Malhi, Ranjit Singh
Format: Newspaper
Language:English
Published: 2025
Online Access:http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/118853/
http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/118853/1/118853.pdf
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Summary:The Ibans, historically referred to as Sea Dayaks due to their past involvement in sea piracy, are the largest ethnic group in Sarawak, numbering approximately 750,000 - which is about 29 percent of the state’s population. As an indigenous Dayak group, the Ibans are renowned for their courage, independence, resilience and rich cultural heritage, which is deeply rooted in distinctive traditions, spiritual beliefs, and a profound connection to the natural environment. Author discusses contribution of Iban in nation building, and review selected names that fit this bill in their respective ways.