Upon discovering a spring on the slopes of Bukit Keramat, the villagers began constructing wooden troughs (pancur) to channel the water to their homes.

This technique of using tree bark (kulit) to direct the water became known as pancur dulit, and over time, it became synonymous with the village itself.

They settled along the banks of Tutong River, surrounding Lurah Saban and Kuala Sungai Birau, and likely included those sent by the sultan or local nobles, as well as traders and missionaries.

[6] The villagers chose to live along the riverbanks to avoid conflicts with the Kayan people from the Baram region, who were known for their raiding expeditions (ayau), which threatened the safety of local settlements.

Once the threat from the Kayan people was subdued, the villagers began to shift gradually inland to the foothills of Bukit Keramat, likely beginning in the early 19th century.

While they had previously relied on rainwater, which was sporadic and seasonal, their search for a reliable water supply led to the discovery of springs along the hillside.