ABSTRACT
This chapter explore the complex interrelations of rank and egalitarian principles among the Bhuket of Sarawak. It shows that Bhuket claims to rank can be understood in terms of the internal dynamics of their egalitarianism. The inability of any individual Bhuket to exercise power or authority over another demonstrates the egalitarian nature of the Bhuket political order. Personal characteristics such as being a good warrior or a good collector of trade items or a good weaver were qualifications for higher status among the Bhuket in the context of interaction with other ethnic groups. The influence from the neighbouring stratified societies was strong but the Bhuket claim to rank was an internal adaptive strategy in order to bring the Bhuket together and protect themselves from the Kayan, Iban, and other enemies during Bhuket migration up the Balui. Association with the Kayan and the support given to a particular Bhuket family by them also contribute to some Bhuket claiming to be maren.
