The Study of Iban Traditional Motifs of Sudan’s Ruma Weaving Textile

Authors

  • Sudang Anak Johnny Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Malaysia
  • Siti Humaira Ramli Faculty of Art and Design, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Selangor, Kampus Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24191/idealogy.v10i2.882

Abstract

 

Iban traditional attire weaving contains a rich history derivative of the cultural identity, beliefs,

customs, and traditions of the Iban people. It is considered an important material culture or cultural

artifact in Sarawak culture. The social and cultural identity of the Iban people is reflected in their

costumes, which symbolize the importance of life via intricate aesthetic ornamentation. The way of

living and belief practised by Iban are implicated in the local products, such as the Iban’s textile, which

is embedded with design motifs inspired by flora, fauna, and animism The focus of this study is on Iban

traditional attire weaving. There were 4 traditional attires used as study material collected from the

Sudan Ruma weaving. This study identification of the Iban traditional motif weaving motifs of the

weaving motifs of Iban traditional attire by using qualitative methods such as primary and secondary

data. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with two experts and specialists. The results indicated

different categories of motifs that were closely correlated to the Iban people's philosophy, culture, and

beliefs. Most of the Iban traditional attire was decorated with numerous repeated motifs. On this basis,

it is hoped that this study could serve as a reference concerning the cultural heritage of Iban traditional

attire weaving motifs and recommended that further exploration should be carried out concerning

weaving motifs of traditional Iban traditional attire in the Iban community.

Keywords: Iban, Traditional Attire, Cultural Identity, Weaving, Motif

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Published

2025-09-30