Bario

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View from the motivational park near the school in Bario, Malaysia

For the genus of characid fishes, see Bario (fish).

Bario is located in the centre of the Kelabit Highlands in the north east of Sarawakm Malaysia, very close to the international border with Indonesian Kalimantan, and 3280 feet above sea level. It is the main settlement in the Kelabit Highlands. There are regular flights between Bario Airport and Ba'kelalan, Marudi and Miri.

[edit] People

The Kelabit, at approximately 5000 people, is one of the smallest ethnic groups in Sarawak. Like many other indigenous communities in Sarawak, the Kelabit live in longhouses in the highlands. However, due to economic and social factors, many have migrated to live in urban areas over the last 20 years. It is estimated that roughly only 1200 Kelabit are still living in the highlands.

The Kelabit language is widely spoken, and many have also learned to speak English and Malay.

[edit] History

Over a century ago, the Kelabits were involved in headhunting raids, not so much for ritual purposes but as a means to prove one’s courage, bravery or valiancy, and to get even with their enemy. However, things have changed. Today among other things, the Kelabits are well-known for the friendliness and hospitality. They embraced Christianity during the 1940s through the influence of Guru Paul, also known as Nimang Tepun.

In 1946 the first school was opened by Tom Harrison, who lived with the Kelabits for two years after the Second World War. In 2001 the Bario community was named as one of the Top Seven Intelligent Communities by World Teleport Association ^[1].

[edit] Agriculture

The community's main economic activity is agriculture, mainly growing Bario rice. The cool climate at the average 20°C enables the residents to cultivate citrus fruits besides rice. Bario is also famous for its high-potash Bario-made salt and the refreshing, juicy Bario pineapple.