After detail analysis of literature, we found that no proper documentation of Oroo' signs has been done yet so we have launched into our own collection of signs, messages and rules. A number of forest visits were organised by the community members to demonstrate the different Oroo’ signs. We have video recorded the whole process and collected photos, videos and drawing of Oroo’ signs,construction process and the description of each sign. The documentation process, which we call “contextual documentation”, is performed in the traditional context (in forest). For each interval of documentation, the research team is led by the Oroo’ expert to a nearby place in the forest. The Oroo’ sign are constructed in the real environment to avoid any missing details of the signs. In the dense forest of Sarawak, sometimes it is extremely difficult to recognise and differentiate an Oroo’ sign from the background (other twigs, branches and leaves). Therefore, a local artists group was engaged to draw the Oroo’ signs and to compile an Oroo’ drawing repository. The drawings helped to understand the detailed complexities of the Oroo’ signs. The main objective of collecting the drawings was to understand the local conceptualisation of Oroo’ signs, analyse it and use it in designing Oroo’ games for youth and tourists. All the drawings were reconfirmed by the community elders in community meetings. We have compiled a database of documented 50 signs in the first stage of the project.

 

Research Outcomes

  • A database of 53 signs (Photos, drawings, textual and video description)

Project Team

  1. Garen Jengan (Long Lamai community)
  2. Richard Jengan (Long Lamai community)
  3. Gayut Lim (Long Lamai community)
  4. Tariq Zaman
  5. Azwan Bin Kajang (Intern)
  6. Wellingson Anak Kuling (Intern)