7th May 2026 Ms Paik San & Beena
Hello everyone. When Paik San shared her evocative painting of the Bidayuh Longhouse at Annah Rais, my curiosity was immediately piqued. I delved into its history and significance, discovering that her artwork—a striking pen and ink sketch—beautifully captures the spirit of this iconic structure.
East Malaysia is home to many longhouses, yet the origins of these remarkable structures reach back 7,000 years to Neolithic farmers in Europe. Throughout history, longhouses have appeared across continents—from Europe, Britain, and Scotland to North America and Asia—testifying to their enduring importance in human society.
In Asia, the tradition endures: aboriginal peoples of Austronesian origin in Taiwan built and inhabited longhouses, and Korea’s own examples date back 3,000 years. Designed for communal living, these structures foster a deep sense of unity and resilience, with the bonds of community offering strength in numbers.
The longhouse Paik San depicted stands in Annah Rais, a village famed for its hot springs and vibrant cultural heritage. As a popular destination, it showcases the traditions of the Bidayuh, one of the prominent Native groups in the area. Reflecting on the history of Taiwan, I am struck by the parallels between its aboriginal peoples and our own Dayak communities. The ancient migration routes—stretching from Taiwan to the Philippines and then Borneo—help explain the striking similarities in culture and language that persist today. I wish to thank Paik San for her pen and ink