Kayaman in Malaysia

Introduction / History

Kejaman is a language spoken by about 1,000 people. They are sometimes called Kejaman and other times called Kayaman.

Where Are they Located?

The people who speak this language live in northern Borneo in Malaysia's Belaga District.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kejaman people live in long houses. They made themselves known in 2016 by setting Malaysia's record for the highest number of people to participate in a Suwey Dance. That same year they produced a picture dictionary to preserve their dying language. As the logging industry encroaches on their forested homeland, many Kejaman people are leaving their traditional way of life. Many are marrying out of the Kejaman tribe and joining other people groups.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The primary religion practiced by the Kejaman people is ethnic religion. Ethnic religion is deeply rooted in a people's ethnic identity and conversion essentially equates to cultural assimilation. These people are losing their language and culture. They are almost certain to feel hostility to those who try to change their religion as well.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kejaman people need believers to help them adjust to the modern world as their old ways die out.

Prayer Points

Pray that Kejaman leaders will have dreams of Jesus where the Savior reveals Himself to them.
Pray for the Kejaman people to have a spiritual openness to Jesus during this time of great change.
Pray for them to preserve their language and culture in their own churches.
Pray for a disciple making movement to emerge among the Kejaman people.

Text Source:   Keith Carey