(^40) What a fascinating world - Sarawak was home to approximately forty ethnicities, each
with its own language and customs. Hence, the markets were intriguing, with various
products, including Malay, Chinese, Indian and ethnic specialities. Though, I was
wondering if I could eat sago worms (the giant Capricorn beetle's larvae), which are
high in protein and considered a delicacy.
The traditional costume of the Iban women was especially impressive. The traditional
clothes of the Iban are called "ngepan Iban". It included colourfully decorated, silver
headgear, vibrant collars - made of beads and threads - woven skirts, belts, corsets,
and bangles/bracelets known as "tampa", pronounced as tempo (of which a whole set
was purchased), anklets and silver purses.
As the mullah called the people to prayer, the heathen set off in the direction of the
night market in search of a bite to eat. I made my way through a residential area with
the kids' familiar chanting, "What's your name, what's your name?" from dimly lit
entrances. Cheating a bit, I replied with any uncomplicated name which came to mind
and could hear them repeating it amongst themselves. Too sweet.
leana
(Leana)
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