Journal of the Federated Malay States museums - Sabrizain.org

it4 Journal of the F.M.S. Museums. [Vol. VI,
Jakuns had several had been turned loose among the stubble
of last year's crop. A remark made with regard to these
animals rather well illustrates the Jakuns' attachment to their
old wandering habits. On one man being congratulated on
the prosperous appearance of the village, and possession of
goats, buffaloes and fowls, he replied, " Oh yes, it is very
nice, but one day we shall get tired of it all, sell the whole lot,
and move off somewhere else."
THE BLOW-PIPE.
The description already given of the blow-pipes of the
Pertang and Serting peoples applies equally well to those of
the Inas Jakun. The only quiver seen had a conical wooden
top to the cover, the sides being made of plaited rattan.
Blow-pipes are still used a good deal, though the Jakuns
have some fearful and wonderful old muzzle loading guns of
which they are extremely proud.
RELIGION AND SUPERSTITIONS.
The beliefs of the Pertang and Bahau people with regard
to Punan, and the Poyang's use of the Mambang were confirmed
by the people of Kelapi. In addition, a field tabu similar to
one in force among the Besisi of Selangor was obtained from
them. It was said that in preparing ground for cultivation
great care must be taken not to disturb the Hantu Tanah
(earth spirit) or Jembalang. When once a clearing has been
made, no tree stump or old branch must be struck with a
parang, or the Hantu Tanah will be aroused and will appear in
the form of rats or mice and destroy the crop.
The semangat padi (rice soul,) which by these people is
called the kepala padi is said to be taken tor both dry and hill
rice.
The names of mother-in-law, father-in-law, mother or
father should not be mentioned. A man is said to be tenung
(afraid) to mention these forbidden names, or those of any of
the fiercer kinds of animals found in the jungle.