On 13th December 2024, a team from the Institute of Social Informatics and Technological Innovations (ISITI) visited The Tun Jugah Foundation to learn more about Pua Kumbu, the traditional Iban textile that holds great cultural value in Sarawak. This visit was an important step for ISITI as they prepare to launch their Community Artisan Fellowship Program for the Iban community, building on the success of their previous program for the Penan community at Long Lamai.
The team, led by Prof. Tan Chong Eng, Director of ISITI, included Pn. Norinda Krang Su’ut, Assistant Administrative Officer, and Ms. Noorhaslina Senin, a lecturer from the Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts (FACA) and a research fellow of ISITI. They were welcomed by Pn. Janet Rata Noel, Curator of The Tun Jugah Foundation’s Museum and Gallery.
Learning About Pua Kumbu
The visit provided the ISITI team with an opportunity to explore The Tun Jugah Foundation’s collection of Pua Kumbu and to learn about its history, cultural importance, and the techniques used to create it. Pua Kumbu is more than just a woven fabric—it tells stories and reflects the beliefs and traditions of the Iban people.
The designs on Pua Kumbu often include images of plants, animals, and people, inspired by dreams and spiritual beliefs. Each pattern carries a special meaning, showing the creativity and deep connection the weaver has with their heritage.
Challenges in Preserving Pua Kumbu
During the visit, the team also learned about the challenges facing Pua Kumbu weavers today. Traditional weaving requires a high level of skill and dedication, but fewer people are learning these techniques, putting this art at risk. There are also challenges in finding materials and balancing the demand for modern designs with preserving traditional methods.
Supporting Artisans Through the Fellowship Program
This visit is helping ISITI prepare for their upcoming Community Artisan Fellowship Program for Iban community in Kapit Division. This program is not only about preserving traditional skills but also about celebrating the unique talents of each Pua Kumbu weaver. It aims to help artisans share their knowledge with future generations while creating opportunities for them to earn a sustainable income.
By understanding the cultural and technical aspects of Pua Kumbu, ISITI hopes to support the Iban artisans in keeping their traditions alive while helping them thrive in today’s world.
A Shared Mission
This visit to The Tun Jugah Foundation reflects ISITI’s dedication to preserving Sarawak’s cultural heritage and supporting rural communities. The foundation’s efforts to document and teach Pua Kumbu weaving are in line with ISITI’s goals of helping communities grow while honoring their traditions.
As ISITI moves forward with the Community Artisan Fellowship Program in Kapit Division, the knowledge gained from this visit will guide them in working closely with the Iban weavers. Together, they aim to ensure that Pua Kumbu continues to be a source of pride and identity for the Iban community, while also providing artisans with new opportunities to succeed.