CJMYThe origin of the Tarian Ngajat dates back to the 16th Century and is believed to have been performed by Iban warriors on their return from battles.
This dance is now performed to celebrate the most important harvest festival called ‘Gawai’, to welcome guests to their longhouses.
The male dancers wear large feathers as part of their headgear, hold an ornate and long shield in their hand with chains, beads and wears a loincloth called the ‘cawat’.
The lady dancers wear elaborate headdress, chains, beads and a ‘dress’ that reaches to below their knees with intricate weaving.
Gongs and other ethnic percussion instruments such as the ‘enkeromong’, ‘bendai’, ‘canang’ and ‘dumbak or ketebong’ are the usual musical instruments used.
Video by CJ KSTan
C. Khor
