But before entering on the subject of products, I must briefly enumerate the various tribes speaking different languages who are now subject to Sarawak.
The Malays are scattered along the banks of almost every river and creek, but the largest number is assembled at the capital, Kuching.
The Chinese, of whom I shall treat hereafter, are principally found in Sarawak, though a few hundreds are now working gold on the Batang Lupar, and traders abound at every place where profit can be obtained.
The Indian races are represented by very few members.
The Land Dayaks occupy a portion of Lundu, with the entire interior of Sarawak, Samarahan, and Sadong.
The Sea Dayaks include the Sibuyaus, who are scattered through the various districts, and the inhabitants of the Batang Lupar, the Seribas, Kalaka, and the branch streams on the left-hand bank of the Rejang.
The Milanaus occupy the mouths of the Rejang, the Ova, the Muka, the Bintulu, and various lesser streams.
The tattooed races, as the Kanowits, Pakatans, Punans, and others, live towards the interior of the districts lying between the Rejang and the Bintulu, and border on the Kayans, who occupy the Balui country as the interior of the Bintulu and the Rejang is called.
All these groups of tribes speak separate languages, and each has also various dialects.
It is very difficult to obtain even an approximate estimate of the amount of population, but I will state it at the most moderate rate.