Sabum in Malaysia

Introduction / History

The Sabum people reside in the dense forests of Malaysia, particularly in the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Their history is deeply tied to the land, where they have lived for generations as hunters, gatherers and subsistence farmers. The Sabum have a strong tradition of oral history, passing down stories and knowledge through generations. Over the years, they have faced challenges from external pressures, such as deforestation and development, which have threatened their traditional way of life.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Sabum people live in small, isolated communities within the rainforest. They rely on a combination of hunting, gathering and shifting cultivation to sustain themselves. The forest provides them with most of their needs, including food, medicinal plants and materials for building their homes. The Sabum’s day-to-day life is closely connected to the environment, with a deep understanding of the natural world and its cycles. However, their traditional lifestyle is increasingly under threat from encroaching development, which limits their access to the land and resources they depend on.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sabum people practice animism, believing that all elements of the natural world, including animals, plants, and even inanimate objects, possess a spirit. Their spiritual beliefs are deeply intertwined with their environment, guiding their interactions with the world around them. They perform rituals and ceremonies to honor the spirits, seek their guidance and ensure harmony between the community and the natural world. The Sabum also have a tradition of storytelling, where myths and legends convey important spiritual and moral lessons.

What Are Their Needs?

The Sabum community faces significant challenges, particularly in maintaining their traditional way of life in the face of modern pressures. Access to education and healthcare is extremely limited, with many Sabum children unable to attend school and basic medical services being far from their settlements. The encroachment of logging and agricultural development poses a serious threat to their land, which is crucial for their survival. Additionally, the Sabum need support in preserving their language and cultural heritage, which are at risk of being lost as younger generations move away or adopt more modern lifestyles.

Prayer Points

Pray the hearts of the Sabum people would be stirred to hunger after God, to drink of living water.
Pray for family-based movements to Christ to soon transform Sabum society, blessing them spiritually and economically.
Pray for the Lord to move in the hearts of believers to give up their own rights and sacrifice their lives to see the Sabum people blessed by the work of Jesus Christ, the only savior.

Text Source:   Joshua Project