2.1.1. Mamatang
Before we or any individual enters the forest, we will prepare materials
needed for the Mamatang ritual. These include 7 betel leaves, 7 betel
nuts, 7 kirai (nipah leaves), a fistful of sigup (tobacco), a pinch of rice, a
box of matches and a pinch of tapu (limestone chalk) presented as
Tinggaton. For the Dusun Kiau ethnic, Tinggaton is presented to guests as
a sign of respect and to welcome their presence. The cultural practice of
giving Tinggaton is used to welcome guests that visit our houses and also
when we enter our community forest.
Mamatang is conducted for safety while in the forest and when an
individual wishes to collect much needed resources in the community
forest. It is carried out according to the needs of each specific area. We
believe that each area has a guardian and the Mamatang ritual needs to
be conducted.
Materials needed during a Mamatang ritual: 7 betel leaves, 7 betel nuts, 7 kirai (nipah
leaves), a fistful of sigup (tobacco), a pinch of rice, a box of matches and a pinch of tapu
(limestone chalk) presented as Tinggaton.
9|Dusun Kiau Community Protocol