This is an Iban longhouse. Longhouses differ slightly from tribe to tribe but share the same basic characteristic, they are a single long hut that allows the entire tribe to live under one roof. The Iban have an outdoor veranda, which they use for drying palm or pepper; an interior common space, where they meet, eat and celebrate; and individual living spaces that are organized a bit like railroad flats.

The whole thing is built on stilts to protect the tribe from floods, animals and enemies. It is surrounded by wooden walkways that lead to animal cages