Peace & Friendship

'Dalat' is the Melanau word for the insects we call 'flies'. The story begins in a village situated on the Oya river. The old chief of the village has three sons. Before he passed away, he calls his three sons to give them a parting advice. Galau is the eldest son. Umat is the second, and Lutong is the youngest. The old chief advises the three sons to support and help each other. 


After their father dies, Umat wants to be the new chief. According to custom, Galau, as the eldest son, should succeed his father.


Umat insists that because he is a good warrior, he is more qualified to become the chief. Galau keeps quiet because he does not want to quarrel with his younger brother. Lutong thinks that they should follow the custom.



Umat gathers support for himself and soon the people of the village are divided into two sides, one for Umat and the other for Galau. Then Umat leaves the village with his supporters and join their enemies. Galau's men expect Umat to come back with the enemies to attack them. They build a new longhouse that is strong and very high above the ground. Once the ladders are pulled up no one can enter the house. They are safe there.

When Umat and his men attacks the village, Galau and the villagers are well prepared to fight. There is a terrible war and many people are killed including Umat. Umat's men flee. The dead bodies attract lots of black flies. Galau decides to rename the village 'Dalat' or 'flies' to remind the people that if they do not value peace and friendship the result will be disastrous.