ISSN: 2222-6990
Open access
Purpose of this study: To describe and analyze the role of Tok Biah in the customs and beliefs of Orang Asli.
Methodology: A series of interviews and observations were carried out for this exploratory study to obtain data on the unique status of Tok Biah.
Main Findings: Tok Biah is considered an honorable individual within the Orang Asli Jakun’s system of health as she plays an important role in ensuring the wellbeing and general health of the community and acts as an intermediary between believers and the divinity symbol (God). Tok Biah’s role is also crucially needed in the Majlis Adat Berdoa Urang Huluk and the Upacara Mandi Tepung Tawar at Keramat Datuk Simpang Keanan, Kampung Tamok, as a distinguished religious symbol among Orang Asli Jakun in Bekok, Johor.
Application: This study highlights Orang Asli's acceptance of Tok Biah as an influential person for important matters in the community. She plays a vital role in officiating significant rituals carried out by her people. In addition, she is also a symbol of the Orang Asli's beliefs in their God. Tok Biah also takes care of the health and well-being of her community even though they do visit medical clinics when they fall sick. This role is very significant for Orang Asli's emotional and physical well-being.
Novelty/Originality of this Study: To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there have not been any previous studies done on this topic and at this location. Thus this study is a novelty because it highlights the significant role of Tok Biah in the daily lives of the Orang Asli. Tok Biah is considered unique because she is a female while most Tok Bomohs among the Orang Asli communities are males.
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In-Text Citation: (Ali et al., 2022)
To Cite this Article: Ali, A., Yaakob, A. N., & Jangga, R. (2022). Role of Tok Biah in The Customs and Beliefs of Orang Asli Jakun, Bekok, Segamat, Johor. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 12(9), 166 – 182.
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