Bisaya in Malaysia

Have you heard of the "middle people," the Bisaya of Western Saba and Brunei Bay, Malaysia? They live along the "middle" stretches of the Limbang River, hence they are known as "people of the middle" or "people of the river," where they live in stilt long houses on the river front where they fish. They also farm inland. Their houses are divided into apartments where extended families live. This indigenous people group is overwhelmingly Muslim, but they mix orthodox Islamic beliefs with animistic and shamanistic practices.

Ministry Obstacles

Obstacles to ministry include a lack of Scripture in their language, lack of Spirit-empowered witness and evangelism, and a lack of intercessory prayer for them.

Outreach Ideas

Outreach is possible through Scripture portions and gospel messages in their language. There are other indigenous peoples with a gospel witness who can reach out to them if motivated by the Holy Spirit. Medical clinics are replacing shamans. Pray that the churches on Sarawak would pray for their kinsmen in Western Saba and Brunei Bay and seek to evangelize them as the Spirit leads. Pray that Christian doctors and clinics would be established among the Bisayas of Malaysia.

Scripture Focus

"Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD God, when I will send a famine on the land— not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD."  Amos 8:11

Scripture Prayer

Pray that the Bible becomes available to this people group. Pray that they listen to and obey the words of the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray that the Middle People would become open to the gospel and Christian witness. Pray for a mighty movement to Christ among them this decade.