The longboat in Sarawak has been a powerful vehiclem a very sigificant means of transport before roads and cars arrived. It was a significant part of the life and culture of the indigenous people throughout the history of Sarawak, especially for the Ibans. It can be really long with an attap roof, or even two portions of attap roof.
Even Donald MacDonald commented that rivers were the main means of transport in the roadless Sarawak as recently as in 1956.
It can be as short as a small Kancil (car), a mere 5 feet, for three people, and as long as 150 feet for 80 paddlers.
Most long boats are wooden, handmade from a single good tree which has been well selected to float and to last long. Engkabang is a good wood for boat building. It is hard, long lasting and very floatable.
When it comes to using a long boat, the choice of an outboard engine depends on the pocket of the family. It can be just 15 hp or a luxurious 80 horsepower.
While the man of the family would be the one to control the outboard engine at the back of the long boat, another person, or jaga ruan must keep the front of the boat safe from stray logs or rocks. This is a very important job as he or she will ensure the safety of all the people on board the long boat.
Anyone in the family can do the job, but it must be done skilfully. So with an oar in hand, the jaga ruan will pilot the long boat well. No jaga ruan should sleep on his or her job.
A woman jaga ruan may be a rare sight, but it is not impossible to find one in Sarawak.
She will do an excellent job, like my friend, Mrs. Anye of Long Banga. We trust and admire her as we sailed up the Banga river. We felt very safe and secure. All is well.
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