The Tuai Rumah in Brunei Darussalam: Continuity and Challenges
Abstract
Research on the Iban community in Brunei Darussalam, whose lifestyles and leadership structure are recognized by the government, is scarce. This paper is an attempt to understand the role of the Tuai Rumah, the leader of an Iban longhouse and a recognized administrative position in the country’s local administration as well as the challenges they face in ‘administrating’ in their community. The community’s culture and tradition are endangered as younger members of the community have moved to urban areas in search of employment and better access to public services and are not exposed to their ancestors’ traditional lifestyles. It is possible that the institution of the Tuai Rumah may be abolished in the next decade unless the government re-consider strategies to improve and invest in rural development.
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