The Iban are the Largest and Most Dominant Indigenous Group in Sarawak
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| The source of this infographic is clear: Jabatan Ketua Menteri (The office of the Chief Minister). |
This diversity is not only a reflection of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage but also a testament to the harmonious coexistence of its multi-ethnic society.
Iban: The Largest Ethnic Group in Sarawak
Among the many ethnic groups in Sarawak, the Iban are the largest, with a population of 723,000.Read Dayak: Origins and First Use as Indigenous Identity of Borneo
As the dominant indigenous group, the Iban are known for their strong cultural heritage, including the iconic longhouses, the intricate pua kumbu weaving tradition, and a variety of ancestral rituals that are still practiced today. The Iban’s cultural contributions play a major role in shaping Sarawak’s diverse identity, preserving traditions, and enriching the state’s cultural fabric.
The Role of the Chinese and Malay Ethnic Groups
Following the Iban, the Chinese ethnic group, with a population of 633,000, ranks as the second-largest in Sarawak.
The Chinese have been instrumental in shaping the state’s economy, especially in trade and commerce, while also contributing significantly to the urban cultural development of the region. The Malay ethnic group, with 558,000 people, is the third-largest and plays a central role in governance and the development of Islam in the state.
The Indigenous Groups: Bidayuh, Melanau, and Others
Other indigenous groups also play an essential role in Sarawak’s cultural landscape. The Bidayuh, with a population of 201,000, are known for their rich agricultural traditions and vibrant cultural practices. The Melanau, numbering 140,000, are traditionally maritime people, known for their unique foods like sago and umai (raw seafood salad).
Other indigenous groups, such as the Kayan, Kenyah, Kedayan, Lun Bawang, Penan, Bisaya, and Kelabit, though smaller in number, continue to preserve their local customs and contribute to Sarawak’s cultural diversity.
Read Longhouses of the Dayak People
Sarawak’s ethnic diversity is not just a statistical reality but a lived experience, with various ethnic groups coexisting peacefully and harmoniously.
The state stands as a shining example of how communities with different backgrounds can come together to build a united and prosperous society.
In Sarawak, diversity is not seen as a challenge, but as a strength—helping to forge a unique identity and fostering social, cultural, and economic growth.
Population Data of Major Ethnic Groups in Sarawak
According to recent population data, Sarawak is a vibrant melting pot where the Iban form the largest ethnic group, complemented by significant communities of Chinese, Malay, Bidayuh, and other indigenous peoples, collectively creating a dynamic and diverse cultural landscape.
- Iban: 723,000
- Chinese (Tionghoa): 633,000
- Malay (Melayu): 558,000
- Bidayuh: 201,000
- Melanau: 140,000
- Others (Lainnya): 106,000
- Kayan: 33,000
- Kenyah: 32,000
- Kedayan: 21,000
- Lun Bawang: 20,000
- Penan: 17,000
- Bisaya: 7,000
- Kelabit: 7,000
- Kajang: 6,000
With over two million people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, Sarawak exemplifies how diversity can drive unity, not division.
Watch the full important video about Dayak Hermeneutics here: Analisis Hermeneutika Dayak | Masri Sareb Putra & Albert
The Iban Guardians of Heritage and Multicultural Harmony
As the largest ethnic group in Sarawak, the Iban continue to play a crucial role in preserving the state’s rich heritage while actively shaping its multicultural society. Their deep-rooted traditions, vibrant arts, and strong leadership contribute significantly to the harmony and diversity that define Sarawak.
As custodians of cultural wisdom passed down through generations, the Iban not only safeguard their own identity but also foster unity among the many ethnic groups that call Sarawak home. Their resilience and adaptability ensure that their customs remain relevant in an evolving world while maintaining the essence of their ancestral legacy.
Read The Classification of Dayak Ethnic Groups
Beyond Malaysia’s borders, the Iban people extend their presence into Indonesia, particularly in Sanggau, Sekadau, Sintang, Melawi, and Kapuas Hulu. When combined, the Iban population in both countries forms the largest Dayak subgroup in the world, with no fewer than 1.4 million people. This demographic prominence highlights their historical influence and enduring cultural significance across Borneo.
The Iban’s collective strength, whether in Malaysia or Indonesia, is a testament to their unity, rich traditions, and unwavering commitment to preserving their identity in an increasingly globalized world.
-- Masri Sareb Putra, M.A.