DEAR readers, last week, we dove into the intersection of physical senses and virtual reality. We explored how technology is bridging the gap between our sensory experiences and the digital realm, shaping our perceptions in unprecedented ways.
This week, however, we are steering our focus towards a different avenue, one that is equally intriguing but grounded in the rich tapestry of human experience.
Exploring the influence of culture on physical sensory perception; is a topic that not only broadens our understanding of how we perceive the world but also deepens our appreciation for the diversity of human experience.
Choosing to explore the influence of culture on physical sensory perception may seem like an abstract endeavour, but it is, in reality, a deeply personal and universally significant theme.
As I relate this to the humans of the world, let us consider how different cultures celebrate communal events. For instance, the style in which people celebrate is vastly influenced by cultural heritage, shaping sensory perceptions around food, music, and aesthetics.
In contrasting settings – from bustling cities in the West to the tranquil longhouses in Sarawak – our sensory experiences differ widely based on cultural practices.
This brings us seamlessly to our present moment – celebrating Gawai in Sarawak. Gawai, which signifies the end of the harvest season, is a time for joy, reunion, and reflection.
It is a festival that captures the essence of Dayak culture, where celebratory gatherings are infused with vibrant sensory experiences.
The savoury scents of traditional dishes, such as ‘ayam pansuh’ (chicken cooked in bamboo with aromatic herbs) permeate the air, creating a sensory feast synonymous with this joyous occasion.
‘Ayam pansuh’, prepared by skilled hands, speaks volumes about the importance of community and sharing, inviting everyone to partake in the celebration.
The tactile sensation of passing around bamboo tubes filled with delicious food exemplifies the rich interplay between culture and sensory perception, as it fosters a connection among family and friends.
Consider the visual elements of Gawai as well: the colourful attire worn by the Dayak people, adorned with intricate beadwork and vibrant patterns that tell stories of ancestry and pride.
Every hue and every stitch breathes life into the festivities, reinforcing identity and communal bonds. The sights associated with this celebration are forms of storytelling in themselves, illustrating the deep connection between our senses and the cultural narratives that enrich our lives.
As someone who immerses one’s self in the rich cultural tapestry of Borneo, particularly during the festive Gawai celebrations in Sarawak, I have witnessed firsthand how various cultures shape our sensory experiences.
Whether it’s the taste of traditional food, the vibrant colours of attire, or the sounds of music and laughter, our sensory perceptions are inevitably filtered through the lens of our cultural backgrounds.
The diverse ethnic groups – from the Ibans and Bidayuhs to the Orang Ulu – offer a wealth of perspectives that illustrate how deeply culture can shape our sensory experiences.
Take, for another example, the aroma of traditional dishes like ‘lemang‘ (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo) wafting through the air.
It can evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy, resonating deeply with individuals raised in this culture. The sounds of gongs and traditional music not only entertain but also create an immersive atmosphere of celebration that enhances the communal spirit.
Visually, the sight of beautifully adorned traditional costumes, vibrant decorations, and the colourful array of food creates a kaleidoscope of experiences that might be interpreted very differently by someone from a different cultural background.
As a participant in a Gawai celebration, I experienced a heightened sense of connection to their heritage and community, deepening their appreciation of these sensory stimuli. This cultural event is rich in sensory experiences.
The sight of colourful ‘tangkaras’ (traditional creative arts), the sounds of Indigenous music and ceremonies, the smell of traditional dishes being prepared, and the taste of ‘tuak’ (rice wine) all come together to create an atmosphere that is nothing short of magical.
During Gawai, our senses are heightened, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and depth of our culture. Each smell, sound, or taste becomes imbued with significance, shaped by the rituals surrounding this festive occasion.
But it’s not just limited to festive occasions. Borneo’s indigenous cultures, such as the Iban and the Dayak, rely heavily on their environment.
And this dynamic relationship shapes their sensory perception profoundly. For example, the sound of nature – such as the rustling of leaves or the chirping of crickets – plays an essential role in the everyday lives of these communities.
The sounds convey not just the presence of life but also signal potential dangers or blessings, influencing how individuals respond to their immediate environment.
Let us now expand our view beyond Borneo to see how culture shapes sensory perception globally. In the culinary world, flavours can take on entirely different meanings, depending on cultural contexts.
Take ‘umami’ for instance – a taste that originated in Japan and is often described as “savoury”. While people from Western cultures may not have grown up identifying this flavour, those immersed in Japanese cuisine understand it as a key element in experiencing food.
Similarly, while spices are essential in Indian cuisine, someone unfamiliar with the heat levels may perceive these dishes quite differently.
Moreover, when we celebrate festivities around the world, our culture dictates our sensory experiences. Take Diwali in India, where the air is thick with the smell of sweets and the sound of fireworks fills the night sky. Or Oktoberfest in Germany, with its vibrant sights and sounds of joyous gatherings. Each event enriches not only individual senses but also collective cultural identity.
As another example, consider how myriads of cultures celebrate food. In Spain, ‘tapas‘ are not just about feeding the body; they create social bonds through the shared sensory pleasures of taste and presentation.
Now, returning to Sarawak to celebrate Gawai, this festival embodies how culture influences sensory experiences in that it is marked by rituals that invoke the very essence of cultural identity.
During Gawai, traditional performances, such as the ngajat dance, render audiences speechless not just through the movements but the intricate sounds of gongs and traditional drums.
Lighting up our senses, these experiences forge connections between individuals, binding them together in celebration of their heritage.
As I ponder more, I see the profound ways in which culture shapes our sensory perceptions. I feel incredibly grateful to experience the richness of Gawai in my homeland, Sarawak.
This festival is a time of reconnection with family, of remembrance of ancestors, and of appreciation of life’s blessings.
It emphasises not just the act of celebration but the sensory connections – how the laughter of loved ones feels, how the warmth of community resonates, and how the taste of togetherness nourishes our very souls.
Dear readers, as we celebrate Gawai and reflect on the influence of culture on our senses, may I encourage you all to immerse yourselves fully in every tiny sensory detail.
Let us listen serenely to the sounds around you, savour every bite of food, and relish the joyous moments that unfold. These experiences help construct not just individual identities but create a shared community collective.
To all my dear fellow Sarawakians and those celebrating Gawai worldwide, may this season bless you with copious sensory delights, rich connections, and a sense of unity that transcends our differences.
Blessed Gawai! Let the festivities fill your hearts and homes as we celebrate together.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
