The Batik of Malaysia

Jennifer Robinson

ANT 101

Professor Janni Pedersen

April 22, 2013

I. Introduction

Historically the Batek dwelled in the forests of Pahang, Malaysia but due to selective logging or clear-cutting the Batek now largely inhabit the Taman Negara National Park. The Batek or The Batek De' are one group of Malayan aborigines that are still nomadic hunters and gatherers, so the exact locations of their settlements change within the confines of the area that they inhabit. The forest is a major part of the Batek's existence. "Unlike someofus who feartheunknown that lurks intheforest,the Batekfeel safe there because they have learned to deal with its potential dangers by evolving rituals and taboos and these dictate their behavior towards their...