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Traditional forest longhouses mark unique cultural identity for E. Malaysia tribes

Traditional long houses in the forests of Sabah province in Malaysia's eastern Borneo Island
Traditional long houses in the forests of Sabah province in Malaysia's eastern Borneo Island

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by Abdullah Bugas KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, Feb 1 (KUNA) -- Traditional long houses in the forests of Sabah province in Malaysia's eastern Borneo Island, mark a unique cultural identity and source of pride for indigenous tribes there.
The houses are more than 100 meters long and accommodate between seven to 30 families, while in some cases about 300 people of three different generations live in one house.
The house, which is extended as the family grows, is built due to several things, including protecting tribes who lived in the forests from attacks by other tribes, as well as the attack of predators and snakes.
Five-feet solid pillars made of wood are used in building these houses, providing protection from torrents and rodents. Today's houses made of bricks and cement are equipped with electricity and water facilities, but traditional designs are maintained. (end) aq.seo