PAGKAHWIN
The Bajau Kubang community is part of the Bajau tribe which
constitutes one of the major indigenous groups of Sabah . A land
based maritime society living in the Semporna District, the Bajau
Kumbang customs include observing and performing traditional
wedding rituals. These functions held are a good opportunity for
people of all creeds and colours to meet and socialise with one another.
The traditional wedding of Semporna involves various stages.
During the Magpassal, the fingers of the bride and groom will be
painted with henna. A cleansing ritual called the Magbatal will be performed
before and after the marriage vows are taken. To wake the household
before dawn, special music will be played by the kulintangan and gong
ensemble at the houses of both the bride and groom. This process is called
Titik tag’na. To solemnise the marriage vows, the groom and his entourage
will go on a Muaoh Pengantin bearing the bride-wealth. The pathway to
the bride’s house is usually decorated with a sambulayang (large flag
shaped like an octopus or jelly fish) and kipas-kipas (smaller triangular
flags), all of which have ritual significance. Before the guests can witness
the wedding, the Pugung or ritual cleansing and ceremonial wrapping of
the bride in a sarong will be held. Both bride and groom will then sit on a
special dais during the Magpasandang.
By: MaWaR PuTiH
No comments:
Post a Comment