Sapeh

Sapeh (also spelled sape, sapeʼ, sapek, or sampeq; ) is a traditional string instrument indigenous to the interior of Borneo. It is a "boat lute" traditionally crafted from a single block of wood by the Orang Ulu communities, particularly the Kayan and Kenyah who reside across the modern political borders of Sarawak (Malaysia) and Kalimantan (Indonesia). The sapeh is officially recognized as a cultural icon and a "Masterpiece of Heritage" by both the Malaysian and Indonesian governments. In Malaysia, this is evidenced by the official proclamation of Sapeh masters as Living National Heritage (Warisan Kebangsaan Orang Hidup) by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, while in Indonesia, it is registered under the National Intangible Cultural Heritage (Warisan Budaya Takbenda).