Authors : Daniel Ugih Uchoh, Salfarina Abdul Gapo and N. Lyndon
Abstract: The main focus of this research is to see changes in religious and cultural activities of Iban ethnic in agriculture sector. Accordingly, this study will use the interpretive approach using phenomenology approach based on idealist ontology and constructionist epistemology. This study was conducted in Kuala Serupai and Sungai Semanok, Kuala Tatau, Sarawak. Data was gathered using in depth interview, focus group discussion and also personally observe the farming activities. A total of 17 informants were involved in this research using the non-probability sampling technique that includes quota sampling, purposive sampling and theoretical sampling. The size of this study’s sample was achieved through continuous support toward measurement or criteria of theoretical sampling. The findings from the study shows that changes in religion and believes occurred in both villages. The religion changes in Kuala Serupai and Sungai Semanok is due to implicit factors amongst the farming community, many converted to suit the desire of their children and also in hope to change their fortune. At the same time, the reason being for farmers to convert from their animism believes to Christianity was due to the fact that they were influenced by their children whom had already been converted to Christianity.
Daniel Ugih Uchoh, Salfarina Abdul Gapo and N. Lyndon, 2014. Religion and Cultural Change in Paddy Farming among Native in Sarawak, Malaysia. The Social Sciences, 9: 335-339.