Mari Mari Cultural Village | Kota Kinabalu

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is an immersive cultural experience located just outside Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the rich and diverse indigenous cultures of Sabah, showcasing the traditions, lifestyles, and customs of various ethnic groups in the state. The village is a popular tourist destination for those interested in gaining an understanding of the indigenous communities of Borneo.

Overview

• Location: The Mari Mari Cultural Village is located in Kampung Luanti, about a 30-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu city center. It is set amidst a rainforest setting, which adds to the authentic atmosphere of the experience.
• Opening Hours: The village is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with guided tours available throughout the day. Tours are often conducted in English and other languages, depending on the visitors’ preferences.
• Entrance Fee: The cost of admission usually includes a guided tour, and prices can vary based on the type of tour (e.g., group or private). It's advisable to check ahead for the latest pricing details.

Ethnic Groups Represented

Mari Mari Cultural Village is home to five indigenous groups from Sabah, each representing different aspects of the region’s rich ethnic diversity. Visitors can explore traditional houses, participate in cultural demonstrations, and learn about the lifestyles of these groups:

Kadazan-Dusun:

• One of the largest indigenous groups in Sabah, the Kadazan-Dusun people are known for their agricultural lifestyle, particularly rice farming.
• At the village, visitors can explore a traditional Kadazan-Dusun house made from bamboo and timber. The house is typically built on stilts, a characteristic feature of many indigenous homes.
• Visitors may also witness traditional dances and learn about the Kaamatan Festival, the Kadazan-Dusun's harvest celebration.

Bajau:

• The Bajau people are often called the "sea gypsies" due to their close relationship with the sea. Traditionally, the Bajau people are fishermen, and many live in stilt houses by the water.
• At Mari Mari, visitors can explore a Bajau house and see demonstrations of how the Bajau people make their traditional handicrafts, including fishing tools and woven items.
• The Bajau are also known for their colorful cultural performances, including traditional dances.

Murut:

• The Murut people are indigenous to the interior of Sabah and are known for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle and distinctive tattoos.
• Visitors can explore a traditional Murut longhouse, where they can observe how the Murut people live and learn about their headhunting tradition (which was once part of their history).
• The Murut house is typically surrounded by jungle and is raised on stilts to protect against wildlife.

Rungus:

• The Rungus are an ethnic sub-group of the Kadazan-Dusun people, primarily living in the northern part of Sabah. They are well-known for their craftsmanship, especially in handicrafts and weaving.
• At Mari Mari, visitors can learn about Rungus culture by visiting their traditional house made from bamboo and thatched roofs. The Rungus people are also famous for their intricate beadwork and traditional woven fabrics.
• The Rungus house is set in a lush environment, giving visitors a sense of how they live in rural, natural surroundings.

Lundayeh:

• The Lundayeh people are indigenous to the northeastern part of Borneo. They are known for their agriculture and hunter-gatherer practices, and their culture is influenced by both indigenous Bornean traditions and Southeast Asian influences.
• Visitors can explore a traditional Lundayeh house, built with a large central area for communal activities and smaller rooms for family use. Traditional Lundayeh weaving and cooking techniques are also demonstrated at the village.

Highlights of the Mari Mari Cultural Village Experience

Guided Tours:

• Visitors are typically taken on a guided tour of the village by knowledgeable staff who are fluent in English and can explain the history, traditions, and customs of the indigenous groups.
• The tours are highly interactive, with visitors encouraged to participate in various activities such as traditional cooking, handicraft making, and even trying on indigenous clothing.

Traditional Dances and Performances:

• One of the highlights of the village is the cultural performances. Guests can enjoy traditional dances, drumming performances, and even demonstrations of how to make traditional music using local instruments.
• Fire-making and blowpipe demonstrations are also popular performances that showcase skills used by the indigenous people in their daily lives and survival practices.

Traditional Crafts and Workshops:

• Visitors can watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, basket making, and the creation of intricate beaded jewelry.
• The Mari Mari Cultural Village also hosts workshops where guests can try their hand at creating their own handicrafts, such as weaving a basket or making a traditional hat.

Indigenous Cuisine:

• Guests can experience the flavors of indigenous Sabah cuisine, with traditional dishes served during the tour. Visitors will be able to sample local delicacies such as sago, barbecued meats, rice cakes, and traditional herbal drinks.
• A notable experience is watching how indigenous groups prepare their meals, such as using traditional cooking methods like grilling or steaming food in bamboo tubes.

Traditional Games:

• The village offers interactive opportunities for visitors to play traditional indigenous games like blowpipe shooting, wooden block stacking, and fishing games. These activities allow guests to gain a deeper understanding of how the indigenous communities spent their leisure time and maintained their skills.

Educational Aspects of the Mari Mari Cultural Village

The cultural village is more than just a tourist attraction—it is a preservation effort to maintain the rich heritage and traditions of Sabah’s indigenous communities. Through this immersive experience, visitors learn about:

• The history of each indigenous group and how they lived harmoniously with nature.
• The customs and rituals associated with daily life, from food preparation to ceremonies.
• The tools and skills that were used by indigenous groups for survival, including hunting, farming, and craftsmanship.

Why Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village?

• Cultural Insight: The village offers a deep and interactive understanding of the diverse indigenous cultures of Sabah. It provides a firsthand experience of traditional lifestyles, beliefs, and practices.
• Unique Experience: The opportunity to explore authentic longhouses, try traditional activities, and taste indigenous foods makes this a unique and enriching experience for travelers.
• Educational Opportunity: It’s a great way for both adults and children to learn about indigenous traditions and history while engaging in fun, hands-on activities.
• Photographic Opportunity: The village provides countless opportunities for photos, from the traditional houses to the cultural performances, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

How to Get There

• By Car: The Mari Mari Cultural Village is located about 25 to 30 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city center. Visitors can either take a taxi or drive to the village. Parking is available for visitors arriving by car.
• By Tour: Many hotels in Kota Kinabalu offer guided tour packages that include transportation to and from the village, making it a convenient option for tourists.

Conclusion

The Mari Mari Cultural Village offers an unforgettable and educational experience that highlights the diverse cultures of Sabah's indigenous people. Through traditional houses, engaging performances, workshops, and cultural interactions, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the history and way of life of the people of Borneo. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Mari Mari Cultural Village provides a memorable glimpse into the traditions of Sabah’s indigenous communities.