The boat lute of the Orang Ulu groups of the Kalimantan and Sarawak region is called the Sapé. Believed to have come from Mendalaman, Kalimantan, it comes in many other varieties and names;
Sambe, Sampeq, Sapeh, Sapé Bali, Sape Ting Dua’, to name a few.
The sapé is the most famous of the Bornean boat lutes and has become an iconic symbol of Sarawak, played by contemporary musicians locally and internationally and used extensively in tourism marketing for the state.
2-6 stringed instrument made from one piece of wood, with a hollowed back, elongated body and short neck.
Instrument Maker: Ezra
Location: Sarawak
Status: Revived, Thriving
The boat lute of the Orang Ulu groups of the Kalimantan and Sarawak region is called the Sapé. Believed to have come from Mendalaman, Kalimantan, it comes in many other varieties and names;
Sambe, Sampeq, Sapeh, Sapé Bali, Sape Ting Dua’, to name a few.
The sapé is the most famous of the Bornean boat lutes and has become an iconic symbol of Sarawak, played by contemporary musicians locally and internationally and used extensively in tourism marketing for the state.
All information on the Borneo Boat Lute Revival website is based on research findings conducted by the team and/or sharings of knowledge by its community contributors. It is subject to changes and updates at any time. To discuss any information or use of material from this site, please reach us at hello@borneoboatlutes.com.
A great deal of thought and deliberation went into every piece of information in the archive before it was finally accepted for inclusion. We’d love to hear from you if you’d want to keep the conversation going! Inquiries, comments and recommendations are always welcome.
catriona.catama@gmail.com
Subscribe to our mailing list to stay up-to-date on our revivalist movement, artists, and other upcoming activities!