What is miri-clans?

Miri-clans refer to the various ethnic groups that live in Miri, a coastal city in north-eastern Sarawak, Malaysia. These clans include the Iban, Melanau, Kelabit, Bidayuh, and other indigenous communities.

The Iban, also known as Sea Dayaks, are the largest of the Miri-clans and historically practiced headhunting. They are known for their longhouses, which can house up to several hundred people and are built on stilts.

The Melanau are primarily fishermen and boat-builders, and their traditional houses are built on the ground. They are known for their sago palm-based cuisine and their annual Kaul festival, which celebrates the harvesting of the sago palm.

The Kelabit are an agricultural people who grow rice, vegetables, and fruit, and practice hunting and gathering. They are known for their hospitality and their traditional houses, which are decorated with intricate carvings.

The Bidayuh are known for their bamboo-based architecture and their handcrafted items such as baskets, mats, and musical instruments. They practice slash-and-burn agriculture and are mainly located in the surrounding hills of Miri.

Despite these differences, the Miri-clans share a common culture and traditions. They typically live in close proximity to one another, and intermarriage between the clans is common. The preservation of their unique cultures has become an important aspect of tourism in Miri.