BETONG: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang has reminded the Ibans not to forget their roots as they evolve into a modern society.
He said that rituals such as ‘miring’ to the Ibans and other Dayak communities were still significant and relevant.
“Miring was performed by our ancestors as a way to seek blessing and guidance before we
perform any important task,” he said.
Jabu said that ever since the state elections in 1974, the miring had been performed by most Dayak candidates before ‘going out to war’.
“Although time has changed, our everyday struggles remain the same. I believe, therefore, that everyone who has faith (and follows it) needs guidance.
On Friday night a miring ceremony was held at Dewan Panglima Rentap here for incumbent Dato Seri Douglas Uggah’s nomination to contest and defend the Betong seat.
During the ritual, seven men were instructed to prepare a few ingredients on a saucer.
The ingredients served as an offering.
Two shamans (lemambang to the Ibans) uttered words, praising ancient spirits and ancestors, and asking for blessing for Uggah while holding a rooster during the process.
Uggah and Jabu were surrounded by a few Iban chiefs from the Saribas area while they listened to the words of the shaman.
At the centre of the congregation, charms (of all sorts) were also placed.