| The longhouse is the most typical feature associated with the whole of Borneo,and is a fascinating form of community living. Longhouses were traditionally only semi-permanent, as the villagers would be ready to move when the land around the longhouse had been farmed out.
Built to accommodate many families , the longhouse is divided into two main areas - a series of family rooms and a large open verandah which looks like a public thoroughfare but in fact is not. The public walkway is a metre wide path along the front of the building, of which lead all the 'family-room doors' (chambers). Take off your shoes before entering the longhouse and a good first rule is to ask to speak first to the penghulu (headman). Mats will be spread out on the verandah to sit on. Women are expected to tuck in their feet and men to sit crosslegged. As you are guests of the entire house, men, women and children will all sit together with you.
Don't stroll up and down the verandah without permission because the space outside each family room is private. Instead use the public walkway and ask before returning to the verandah at a different spot. The family room is considered private and in it, the family eats and sleeps. Being invited into one is indeed a privilege. It is advisable to seek permission from the occupants before taking photographs.
The Ibans are a hospitable people, and welcome anybody who wishes to visit them even without an appointment. Bring some chocolates or sweets for the children and drinks or cigarettes for the adults - this is not a tradition but an appreciated gesture. Remmember, it is their home so do not be surprised if they visit you one day.
If invited to stay the night, ask for sleeping mats, which are always available; often bedding is provided too. Men sleep on the verandah while women inside a room.
Bathing is usually in the river and men and women take it in turns. Women wear sarongs and men the minimum of clothing - nudity is offensive. Toilet arrangements may vary, so approach someone who is familiar with the house rules. © Brunei Shell Group of Companies
Original text researched and written by Nick wood . Text updated in 1996 by Haji Hussin bin Ahmad, re-researched and updated in 2000 by Hans Dols
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