IDENTIFICATION OF SYMBOLS AND MOTIFS IN SEKAPAN BURIAL RITUAL

Pengenalan Simbol dan Motif dalam Ritual Sekapan Pengebumian

Authors

  • Nurul Hayati Universiti Putra Malaysia, 97008 Bintulu, Malaysia
  • Mohamad Maulana Magiman Universiti Putra Malaysia, 97008 Bintulu, Malaysia
  • Semsolbahri Bokhari Universiti Putra Malaysia, 97008 Bintulu, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51200/jba.v10i1.7207

Keywords:

Animistic, Belief, Motif, Sekapan, Orang Ulu

Abstract

Kelirieng is a burial pole used by ‘Orang Ulu’ at Belaga District in Kapit Division, Sarawak and is made of hardwood. In this study, burial pole of the Sekapan ethnic group were observed to identify the meaning of symbols and motifs carved on a pole. This research was conducted using qualitative method involving field observations, in-depth interviews with custom holders, local and previous documented resources. It was believed that the sculptors were able to communicate with spirits during the carving process. The selection of motifs for the grave pillar should be based on with characteristics of the deceased and not contradict social stratification. Each motif and symbol carved during the burial process is symbol of gratitude to supernatural beings and shows the strength of the animistic faith in the Sekapan community. Kelirieng ritual is a form of ceremonial homage to the aristocratic class, known as Laja’ or Maren’, practiced by ‘Orang Ulu’ communities.

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Published

2025-12-31

How to Cite

[1]
Rosli, N.H. , Magiman, M.M. and Bokhari, S. 2025. IDENTIFICATION OF SYMBOLS AND MOTIFS IN SEKAPAN BURIAL RITUAL: Pengenalan Simbol dan Motif dalam Ritual Sekapan Pengebumian. Jurnal Borneo Arkhailogia (Heritage, Archaeology and History). 10, 1 (Dec. 2025), 367–382. DOI:https://doi.org/10.51200/jba.v10i1.7207.
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