The Bajau tribe is a community that has been living in the state of Sabah for hundreds of years. This tribe consists of two groups that live in the West and East Coasts of Sabah. They have been recognized as among the largest indigenous and bumiputera population in Sabah. Most Bajau people in Sabah use crops such as tapioca for food. Among them are:
1. Putu
- Putu or also known as Piutu is a type of Bajau food that is used to replace rice. The main ingredient of this food is cassava that has been squeezed out of water and cooked by steam. It is slightly thick and sticky and usually wrapped in Putu. It is better eaten with seafood which is also traditional Sabah food such as Sagol, Kima, Tehe’-Tehe’, Tayum and many more. While eating putu we are not encouraged to drink carbonated water because there will be a reaction after eating putu. The stomach will feel bloated and unpleasant.
2. Tompek
- Tompek or also known as Tinompeh is a Bajau food made from tapioca. The tapioca that has been grated and squeezed out of the water or called ‘Panggih’ flour will be fried without oil in a pan until it is yellowish in color. It is also often used as a substitute for rice and can be eaten with side dishes such as fish and vegetables. Some Bajau communities in other districts also call this dish as anggang. It is also famous among the Suluk people in Sabah.
3. Bamban
- Bamban is a food cooked using rice flour. In addition to its nickname Bamban, some also refer to this food as Bianbam. To prepare bamban, the flour needs to be put into a banana leaf or a coconut tree leaf. It is then steamed until cooked. This dish can be eaten with other side dishes such as fish, vegetables and so on. This one meal is very easy to prepare.
In conclusion, the people of Sabah have a very unique food especially the Bajau people who use the basic ingredient which is tapioca, where as we know tapioca has many benefits. In addition, this dish is very simple and easy to prepare.
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Article written by Syuriana Ibrahim
