Sarawak is known for its ethnic diversity. Among the groups you'll meet are:
Bidayuh hospitality is famous, and you'll enjoy their friendliness in the Kuching and Samarahan districts. They are renowned for their bamboo carving, kesah mats, and decorated vests made from tree bark.
The Chinese have been in Sarawak since the 8th century AD, as first explorers, then traders. Kuching's Chinese Museum documents their many groups and customs. They continue to operate many kilns within the state, supplying an endless array of ceramics.
Iban are the largest ethnic group within Sarawak, and formerly the most feared of the headhunting tribes. They are magnificent artisans, crafting beautiful pua kumbu weavings (see the Pua Kumbu Museum in Kuching) and hampatong, carved wooden figures than protect rice plantings and harvest from damaging spirits. Many Iban continue to prefer living in longhouses, comprising many family units under one roof.
Malays are noted for their beautifully crafted wooden houses, seen notably along the Sarawak riverfront city of Kuching. The Malay are also known for their crafts, in particular the kain songket and selayah keringham, which are woven with silver and gold thread.
Melanau are known for fishing and sailing expertise, and are found mainly in the area between Rejang River and the town of Bintulu. Their best-known crafts include colorful sunhats and wooden figures used in liko healing rituals.
Orang Ulu are known for beadwork and basketry, and for their brightly colored murals on longhouse walls.
The nomadic Penan people build temporary shelters in forests, subsisting by hunting game (yes, they do use blowguns), and harvesting wild sago, fruits, and plants.
