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NABAWAN: While Sarawak’s Iban longhouses traditionally capture public imagination, a lesser-known but equally remarkable longhouse exists in Kampung Silungai, near the Indonesian Kalimantan border in Pagalungan. 

Dating back to the early 1970s, this communal dwelling houses about 600 residents from 30 households, divided into two sections – Silungai A and B – each overseen by its own village chief, Buntiyu Mandulun and Tumbui Lumampau, respectively.

According to Buntiyu, the longhouse’s history began in 1975 with a modest L-shaped structure featuring zinc roofing and tree bark walls.

KK Buntiyu

He said the late 1980s saw its transformation into a modern single-story building, constructed with processed wood, planks and belian wood pillars.  

Local logging companies played crucial roles in this development, namely, Syarikat Takala which provided construction materials except for the belian pillars, and Syarikat Sriwanto which prepared the building site. 

The 400-foot structure’s labour costs were covered entirely by Syarikat Takala.

The community’s roots trace back to Kampung Bantul, a village on the Malaysia-Indonesia border. 

Their migration to Pagalungan occurred after the 1963 Malaysia-Indonesia Confrontation, led by Angansak Biagan alongside Antugi Anduat from Kampung Kakutar Sumatalun, following an invitation from Pensiangan’s respected leader, Datuk Sigoh Singkunan, who now serves as District Chief.

Despite modernisation, the Murut community maintains its rich cultural heritage. 

KK Tumbui

Visitors are traditionally welcomed with shared meals and refreshments in the central gathering space between Silungai A and B. 

Buntiyu said their communal spirit through the Malay proverb “Ringan sama dijinjing, berat sama dipikul,” which celebrates collective responsibility and teamwork.

Today, while younger residents often seek employment in urban areas, they regularly return for festivals, maintaining their connection to their roots. 

This predominantly Christian Murut community exemplifies how traditional values can thrive alongside modern progress, preserving their cooperative spirit and customs while adapting to contemporary times.