The Pua Kumbu is a popular native handicraft

The Pua Kumbu is a popular native handicraft of the Ibans, one of the indigenous group of Sarawak, Malaysia. Translated literally pua kumbu means a blanket or a coverlet.This colourful cloth, woven with intricate combinations of various designs and colours, however, serves, more significant functions other than that of providing cover. In the olden days, the pua kumbu was very much an integral part of the day affair and special rituals of the Iban society. One or more pieces of pua kumbu were hung prominently in the midst of joyous gatherings such as harvest or weddings. The art of making pua kumbu is a much-valued tradition passed on from mothers to daughters.
Lagend has it that about 24 generations ago, Singgalang Burong, the God Of War, taught his grandson, Surong Gunting, how to use the most sacred of all the pua, the Lebur Api, at the end of a war. The heads of their fallen enemies were received ceremonially on this cloth, which had been dyed a deep red colour. This pua was woven at Batu Gelong, the longhouse which was home to the goddesses of weaving, namely Kuman, Indai Abang, and Lullong.
The pua kumbu has come a long way since its magical and mythical beginnings. This beautiful textile is often seen at major fashion shows regionally and internationally. A true taste of Sarawak, the pua kumbu has stood steadfastly and proudly in the face of modernization.