Traditional Iban 'Parang Ilang' Wins Hearts Of Tourists, Craft Enthusiasts

By Anasathia Jenis

KUCHING, Oct 25 (Bernama) -- The traditional handicrafts of the Iban community, particularly the handmade parang ilang crafted by Johnny Berangan from Sibu, continue to captivate both tourists and local craft enthusiasts, becoming a sought-after souvenir.

Johnny, 57, from Rumah Jackson, Batu 16 Jalan Oyang in Sibu, said the parang ilang is not merely a traditional weapon, it is a symbol of courage, dignity, and the identity of the Iban people. Each blade, intricately crafted, tells its own unique story, making it a meaningful and cherished gift.

Having inherited the skill from his father in 1992, Johnny has been honing his craft in blacksmithing for over 30 years.

He knows exactly which type or pattern of parang is best suited for each occasion or special request.

“The parang ilang is often custom-ordered for various occasions, including retirement gifts, official souvenirs, home decor, and wedding gifts, making it a treasured keepsake from Sibu,” he told Bernama when met at the Sarawak Borneo Craft Festival (FKB) 2025 at Tebingan Kuching, here today.

“No two parangs are the same. Each features intricate carvings and Iban ethnic motifs that symbolise strength, loyalty, and the beauty of nature. It is not only a functional tool but also a conversation piece, making it perfect for home décor or as an exclusive gift," he added.

In addition to the parang ilang, Johnny crafts other types of parang, including the parang nyabur, swords, and parang penebas, at his small workshop in Sibu. Depending on demand, he produces between 12 and 20 parang blades a month.

His customer base has expanded beyond the Iban community to include people from various ethnicities and backgrounds.

“The price of a parang varies depending on size and the intricacy of the carvings. Prices range from RM200 to RM400, while the most exclusive pieces can fetch up to RM15,000,” he said.

Each blade takes about five to six days to complete, including the work on the hilt (handle), weaving, and carving the sheath.

However, Johnny faces challenges in sourcing raw materials such as wood and rattan for the sheaths, due to deforestation caused by the expansion of commercial crops.

Despite these challenges, Johnny remains committed to forging the parang ilang as a symbol of his family heritage and the pride of the Iban community.

“As long as I can, I will continue to make the parang ilang. It’s not just a job - it’s my soul,” he said.

He hopes that this traditional craft will continue to thrive and gain greater recognition, especially through social media platforms like Facebook (Bengkel Parang Ilang), local markets, and exhibitions organised by various agencies.

A check by Bernama found that Johnny’s parang stall at the Sarawak Borneo Craft Festival (FKB) 2025 was one of the most popular, attracting attention from both local and international visitors, all impressed by his exceptional craftsmanship.

The festival runs from Oct 24 to Nov 2, 2025, in conjunction with the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival.

Themed “This is Malaysian Craft,” the event brings together 111 entrepreneurs and craft communities from Sarawak and Sabah, showcasing a wide array of textile-based products, forest products, metal works, and other Borneo crafts.

-- BERNAMA