Lady of the longhouse

The Iban annals are full of stories of strong warriors who vanquished fierce enemies, spread hope to the community and made the best of themselves in spite of their situation. Lipu Melin is one such person, an inspiring woman our columnist met while on as

Then she says something completely unexpected. “But I am happy because God keeps me going. Every day is a bonus.”

Perhaps that’s why she seems perpetually inebriated – Lipu is high on having a new lease in life.

“I am happy to use my knowledge to serve my community as their resident doctor. I even find time to make handicrafts,” she reveals, her eyes sparkling.

At my request, she brings out a box of trinkets. The delicate handiwork is stunning. With much difficulty, I decide on a woven mat priced at RM25.

Goaded by my natural shopper’s reflex more than anything else, I ask if she can offer a discount.

“Boleh, boleh (can, can),” she says readily.

While I admire my new acquisition, Lipu disappears to the back of her house. She emerges with two items which she presses into my hands.

“A gift for you,” she smiles broadly.

I stare at the delicate beaded bracelet and a ring made of plant seeds, which, like my discounted woven mat, must have taken her weeks to make. I shake my head vehemently.

“Please take it. Every time you look at it, you’ll remember me.”

The next morning, I am touched to find Lipu standing outside my room. Wrapping her arms around my bulky backpack, she whispers, “Come back and see us.”

I can’t bring myself to say yes. Knowing how easy it is to have good intentions and let life take over, I can’t say something I don’t fully mean to her.

But if I do return someday, I know what I’ll do first: go to a supermarket, and buy lots of peanut butter.

Alexandra Wong (www.facebook. com/nooksandgems) is constantly inspired by Malaysians who live by the dictum, ‘Others above self’.