Pustaka Negeri to host talk on role, significance of Pantun Iban on Aug 4
KUCHING: Pustaka Negeri Sarawak is organising a Sarawakiana talk entitled ‘ The Role and Significance of Pantun Iban’, which will take place at its auditorium this Aug 4.
The two-hour session, scheduled to commence at 2.30pm, coincides with Sarawakiana Carnival 2017. Pantun Iban is a traditional form of Iban oral literature, sung in rhythmic and poetic verses.
It is used to communicate various forms of messages with subtle meanings meant to awaken hidden feelings and emotion – a reflection of the Iban culture of respect for their elders and leaders.
“This talk attempts to analyse and interpret the roles and significance of the major categories of Pantun Iban, with respect to the community’s way of life in the past and at present,” said a press statement yesterday.
The invited speaker is Dr Robert Menua Saleh, director of Oral History Division under Tun Jugah Foundation. Robert has vast experience in carrying out research works related to the Iban community in Sarawak.
He has been carrying out various research projects related to Iban oral traditions, language and other aspects of the tribe’s ways of life. He has also participated in seminars and conferences over the years, both locally and internationally.
Admission to the talk at Pustaka Negeri is free. Those interested can contact Rozana Octovia at 082- 440488 extension 19 or email to rozanoru@ sarawak.gov.my.