The Tubau: Symbol of Unity

Abstract

The Tubau (tubau is a terminology in Irranun dialect which refers to a handwoven cloth which is having a square shape. Other races called it by many other names such as dastar (Kadazandusun and Bajau) and pudong (Murut)) by the Irranun ethnic of Kota Belud, Sabah, is a handwoven cloth which is having a square-shape figure interlaced with the symmetrical patterns. The Tubau represents the superfluous skill, aesthetic capability, impressive creativity and the personal expression of the weaver. The Tubau consisted of different types of motifs that were inspired by the environments, which also have provided the source of raw materials for the weaving tools.

Today, the production of Tubau is still requiring the same skills, techniques and technology as it was produced before. The skilful and experienced weavers, who have been inheriting the weaving skills from the family legacy, are able to produce the Tubau within a short period of time and freely modify and create the Tubau designs during the entire process of weaving undertaken. The basic design principle of the Tubau is to have the patterns with a variety of colours, and the patterns must be able to occupy the whole space of the Tubau.

The Tubau is strikingly possessing its own uniqueness and special characteristics and has been widely accepted and used by other races; thus it has become a tool for unity among the various ethnics and races in Sabah. The Tubau is not exclusively used as a completeness item to the traditional costumes, but it constituted numerous interpretations of significant meanings and philosophy behind its intricate designs. The Tubau also significantly reflects the social system, culture and the beliefs of some ethnic groups in Sabah.