TERENGGANU, with its coastlines hugging the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, has long depended on the sea for trade and sustenance. Here, boat making is not merely a craft; it is a cultural emblem, weaving together the state's maritime prowess and its people's way of life.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The tradition of boat making in Terengganu sails back to possibly the 15th century, closely tied to the state's thriving involvement in regional trade and fishing. The art of boat building reached its crest during the 19th and early 20th centuries, establishing Terengganu as a pivotal boat-building centre in Southeast Asia.
THE ART OF BOAT MAKING
Each traditional boat in Terengganu, from the sturdy 'Perahu Payang' fishing boats to the robust 'Perahu Pinas' cargo vessels, is crafted to suit its maritime purpose. Local timbers such as Chengal and Meranti are shaped and curved into existence, not through blueprints but through the experienced hands and intuitive eyes of the craftsmen. These master boat builders, are lauded for their skills and spiritual acumen in consecrating and inaugurating new vessels.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
In Terengganu, boats are more than transport; they are carriers of folklore and tradition, blessed in ceremonies to ensure safe voyages and plentiful harvests. The maritime spirit is celebrated annually in regional festivals like 'Regatta Lepa', showcasing the vibrant legacy of boat making.
CHALLENGES AND PRESERVATION EFFORTS
Yet, this age-old tradition faces the tides of modernity. The rise of mass-produced boats and the scarcity of artisanal hands threaten its survival. But hope floats with initiatives like the Terengganu Traditional Boat Building Centre on Pulau Duyong, dedicated to preserving this invaluable heritage through documentation and apprenticeships.
IMPACT ON TOURISM
The boat-making hamlets and workshops have now turned into vibrant tourist spots, offering an authentic peek into this meticulous art. Eco-tourism, with traditional boat rides, entwines the pleasure of travel with the support of local livelihoods, enriching visitors' experiences and the community's welfare.