The Evolution of Women’s Traditional Costume Production in Tambunan

Authors

Joanna Datuk Kitingan

Academy of Arts & Creative Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (Malaysia)

Salbiah Kindoyop

Academy of Arts & Creative Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (Malaysia)

Jacqueline Pugh-Kitingan

Borneo Institute for Indigenous Studies, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (Malaysia)

Article Information

DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2026.100600407

Subject Category: Traditional Cultural Studies

Volume/Issue: 10/6 | Page No: 5786-5795

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2026-06-03

Accepted: 2026-06-08

Published: 2026-06-25

Abstract

This study aims to examine the evolution of the traditional clothing of the people of Tambunan District from the perspective of history, culture and contemporary transformation. Traditional clothing not only serves as a basic necessity, but also reflects the community's ethnic identity, social structure and belief system. However, the process of modernization and globalization has had an impact on the form, function and meaning of such traditional clothing. This study used a qualitative approach through interview methods, field observation and analysis of old photographs. The findings of the study show that the change of traditional clothing occurs through the adaptation of materials, design innovations and market influences, yet still retains certain symbolic elements. This study contributes to the understanding of cultural sustainability as well as the implications of transformation in the context of local community identity.

Keywords

Evolution, Traditional Clothing, Tambunan District, Cultural Sustainability, Identity

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