The traditional attire of the Kenyah people is not only distinguished by its elaborate clothing design but also by the accompanying accessories worn by both men and women, for example;

The traditional attire of the Kenyah ethnic group is renowned for its exquisite handmade craftsmanship and the thoughtful use of natural materials sourced from their surrounding environment. Each element used in the making of these garments serves not only a practical purpose but also reflects the Kenyah people’s deep spiritual connection with nature, where every natural resource is treated with reverence and gratitude.

Traditionally, the Kenyah community utilized readily available materials from the lush rainforests of Borneo. The following are the main materials commonly used in the creation of their traditional attire and accessories:

1. Animal Hide

Animal hides, particularly from deer and goats, were used to make men’s garments such as the Besunung or Sunung. The hide was soaked, dried, and softened by pounding before being stitched together using rattan fibers or plant threads. The use of animal skin produced durable and flexible clothing, especially suited for men who engaged in hunting or served as protectors of their families.

2. Plant Fibers and Rattan

Rattan and fibers extracted from forest plants such as the terap, timbau, and bamboo trees were used in crafting Tapung (traditional headdresses), bracelets, and belts (Tesa and Gelam). These materials are lightweight, sturdy, and easily shaped, making them ideal for producing both structural components and decorative accessories.

3. Beads and Colored Stones

Beads form the most essential decorative element in Kenyah attire, particularly for women’s garments. They are used to embellish the Sapai blouse, Ta’a skirt, and accessories such as Uleng, Beteng, and Tebilang. In earlier times, beads were made from fragments of glass, bone, stone, or shells, and were dyed with natural pigments derived from charcoal dust, tree sap, and flower extracts. Each color carried symbolic meaning—representing life, fertility, and harmony.

4. Bird and Animal Feathers

Feathers from the hornbill, wild fowl, and goats were used to decorate headgear, swords, and headdresses such as Lavung Kirieng and Tapung Puk. Among these, hornbill feathers held special significance, as the hornbill is regarded as a sacred and powerful creature in Kenyah belief. It symbolizes courage, nobility, and protection from malevolent spirits.

5. Metals and Copper

Metals such as copper and silver were used to craft bracelets, anklets (Gelam), and earrings (Belaong). These metallic ornaments not only served as adornments of beauty but also as symbols of wealth and social standing within the community. For Kenyah women, the number of bracelets and necklaces worn was often an indication of status and respectability.

6. Modern Textiles

In contemporary times, fabrics such as velvet, satin, and cotton have been adopted as alternatives to traditional animal hides and plant fibers. The use of these modern materials has made it easier to reproduce Kenyah traditional costumes for cultural performances, Gawai celebrations, and official ceremonies, while still preserving the original motifs, patterns, and artistic integrity of the Kenyah heritage.

Each layer of clothing, accessory, and method of wearing in Kenyah traditional attire carries symbolic meaning that reflects a person’s status, gender, and social role within the community. The manner of dressing also varies according to purpose—whether for traditional rituals, festivals, weddings, or cultural performances. The following outlines the proper ways of wearing this traditional attire:

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