EXPLORING SUSTAINABLE HERITAGE: A CULTURAL JOURNEY THROUGH SARAWAK'S LONGHOUSES

Abstract

Sarawak, a state renowned for its cultural diversity and rich heritage, boasts an iconic architectural marvel: the longhouse. These traditional longhouses epitomise the harmonious coexistence of multiple families under one roof, reflecting the communal lifestyle of the indigenous people. In recent years, there has been growing concern about the diminishing appreciation and knowledge of cultural heritage among the younger generation. This trend is evident across various cultures worldwide, including those with rich and diverse histories. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, each playing a significant role in the erosion of traditional practices, customs, and knowledge. To address this issue, a cultural and educational trip was organised for a group of construction technology undergraduate students to visit a longhouse in Sarawak. The objective of this trip was for the students to explore, learn, and understand the unique ethnic and socio-cultural communities, architectural heritage, and environment of Sarawak. Additionally, the program intended to expose the students to the sustainability elements in the traditional longhouse structures they visited. The students were able to identify and perceive the differences between traditional and modern longhouses. While the materials used for construction differ, the concept and design remain consistent. Despite their modernity, these longhouses continue to symbolize the strong cultural identity and communal ethos of the Sarawak people. The journey through these longhouses offers an immersive experience of Sarawak’s architectural ingenuity and cultural richness. The students were exposed to the seamless blend of tradition and modernity, emphasizing the importance of preserving heritage while adapting to contemporary living standards. Through this exposure, it is hoped that these students, as future generations, will be able to value and preserve this unique way of life amidst changing times.