To preserve a language

The language spoken by Sarawak's indigenous ethnic group Bidayuh is at risk of disappearing outside its traditional heartland. – ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/ The Star

ETHNICALLY diverse Sarawak is home to more than 26 indigenous groups and 47 language varieties, and while some of these languages remain popular, Bidayuh is declining. Researchers set out to find out why.

The Bidayuh, often referred to as Land Dayak, meaning “people of the land”, is the second largest indigenous ethnic group in the region, behind the Iban. And while the Iban make up nearly 30% of the Sarawak population, the Bidayuh account for just 7.7%.