Kenyah, Sarawak

About Kenyah

Kenyah is a tribe in Sarawak. They are a component of the group of indigenous people collectively known as Orang Ulu living in the interior of the state, in places such as Baram, Data Kakus, Data Surau, Sungai Senep, Long Dungan, Long Busang, Long Beyak, Bintulu, Miri, and Belaga regions.

While the Kenyah is a subgroup of Orang Ulu, the Kenyah themselves comprise of 40 subgroups that share related dialects and customs. Unlike the Kayan, the Kenyah live in settlements comprising a single long house called Uma Dado which is headed by a headman. They practice slash and burn agriculture, moving to a new, untouched forest after depleting their field of nutrients.

Until they converted to Christianity, most of the Kenyah tribesmen were animist who believed in Bungan Malan Peselong Luan, which is a protective and healing deity for the tribe. Today the majority are Christians.

Kenyah are skill craftsmen and are particularly adapt at making basketware. They are the creators of wonderful tribal murals, many of which can be found in places such as the Sarawak Museum. Their weapon of choice is the blowpipe.

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