Abstract
The population of Sabah, characterized by high ethnic and religious diversity, possesses a rich and distinctive cultural heritage. Cultural practices observed within these communities undoubtedly serve important social functions and roles and continue to be preserved to the present day. Mikorot is one such indigenous practice in Sabah, carrying significant functions and implications for interethnic and interreligious relations. Mikorot, or the ritual of blood-drinking, has long been practiced among the indigenous ethnic groups of Sabah and the social bonds established through this ritual continue to be maintained today. This study aims to explain the practice of the mikorot ritual among indigenous communities in Sabah and to examine its role in promoting ethnic harmony. The research adopts a qualitative approach, employing interviews as the primary data collection method and using snowball sampling to identify eligible respondents. The findings indicate that the mikorot ritual is intended to establish kinship ties without marital bonds. These kinship relationships are not limited to male–male or female–female pairings; they may also occur between individuals of different genders and ethnicities, as well as between individuals of different religions. The practice of mikorot has contributed positively to interethnic and interreligious relations, as well as to stability in Sabah society.
Keywords: Blood-drinking Ritual, Ethnic Harmony, Ethnic Tolerance, Mikorot.