Local Keeps Boat Making Tradition Alive
By Haji Mohd Zaide Haji Damit

Bandar Seri Begawan - A resident of Kg Sungai Kebun in the capital, Awg Jaafar bin Hj Bakar, had the vision of going further the traditional way.

He had a dream to achieve. And this dream took him to the world of boat making. The boat is a popular form of transportation in Kampong Ayer in the capital since he was a child. Water Taxis or ParahuTambang still operates at the village.

Having the experience and skills he has earned while being under the tutelage of Hj Hasnan bin Hj Ramli, a boat builder, Awg Jaafar believes he has the confidence to build boats himself.

Most of the water taxi boats are made from "Meraka Merah" or "Meranti", which are available at the sawmill. According to Awg Jafaar, although there is a modern system and new materials in boat-making, such as the introduction of fiberglass, water village residents still prefer to choose wood for their water taxis.

He added that it takes about two weeks to complete one boat and costs between B$1,800 to B$2,000. He also said tourists from Japan and China have visited his workshop to watch and take photographs of him making boats.

Awg Jaafar hoped that such traditional way of making boats will remain part of the Bruneian heritage, as it is our responsibility to keep the tradition alive. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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