Tambunan is predominantly populated by the Dusun people, one of the largest indigenous ethnic groups in Sabah. They have a rich cultural heritage that has been passed down for generations, including unique traditions in weddings, agriculture, and daily life. When I was a young child, I remember that traditional Tambunan weddings were much more interesting compared to now. Although I was not directly involved in the activities or processes, I was present at weddings with my parents days before the actual wedding reception to help with the preparations. In some cases, we would go to the wedding venue every day for a week before and even after the event, depending on my parents’ availability, to help with whatever needed to be done. Obviously, as a kid, my main reason for being there was to play with other children whose parents were also involved in the preparations.

Apparently, everyone gathered to help with the wedding preparations. Wedding celebrations are a big event in Tambunan. The bride’s family would make the occasion as grand as possible, inviting as many people as they could to their children’s wedding reception. There were no limits and no RSVPs required. You know what that means, right? A huge amount of resources would be needed for the event. With more than 1,000 guests expected, the family had to prepare enough food and drinks, hoping that everything would be more than sufficient for everyone.

Now, let’s talk about the preparations. The men were responsible for the heavy tasks, while the women handled the lighter activities. The men started by clearing the venue, usually next to the bride’s house. Then, they would go to the nearest forest to find ideal-sized bamboo to build a traditional canopy. How much bamboo was needed? Well, just imagine—enough to shelter a thousand guests! Not to mention, most of the furniture was also made from bamboo, including tables and chairs. Even the traditional drinks were served in bamboo tubes. It was like a bamboo festival! Hahaha. Transporting the bamboo relied entirely on manpower. They would carry the heavy bamboo poles on their shoulders, like a 20-foot bazooka, and bring them to the reception venue. Trust me, those bamboos are really heavy! Strength, patience, and a strong heart were all required. After gathering the bamboo, they would start building the canopy, furniture, and decorations.

Meanwhile, the women were responsible for general house cleaning and kitchen work. They had to prepare food for the men every day until the event was completely over. It makes sense, right? After doing all that heavy labor, the men wouldn’t have the energy to cook. The women had to work together as a team to ensure everything was ready for them to eat and re-energize.

These preparations usually took around 3 to 4 days, depending on the number of people helping out. About 1 to 2 days before the reception, the men would go out to catch animals such as buffaloes, pigs, and cows, which would be slaughtered for the wedding banquet. At the same time, the women would cut vegetables and prepare ingredients according to the planned menu.

That is what I can share for now about the culture of traditional wedding preparations in Tambunan in those days. There is so much more to tell, but perhaps I will take some other time to write about it for you all to read and imagine.

Some secluded places in Tambunan actually still practice these traditions. If you are interested in learning more about this culture, you may contact us at Strada Borneo.

Credit: Photos were taken in 1990’s at Kg. Toboh, Tambunan, Sabah by Victor Kitss.