The Melanau are an indigenous ethnic group primarily found in Sarawak, a state on the island of Borneo in Malaysia. They are known for their unique culture, language, and traditional practices, which include fishing, farming, and the production of sago, a staple food derived from the sago palm. Traditionally, the Melanau lived in coastal villages and were skilled in boat-making and fishing. Their society is organized into clans, and they celebrate various festivals, such as the Gawai Dayak, which marks the rice harvest. The Melanau language belongs to the Austronesian language family, reflecting their rich cultural heritage.