First time hearing about perahu kolek or kolae boat was in Terrapuri, a story shared by Mr. Alex - man of vast knowledge on Malay culture and heritage. And again I heard about this beautifully crafted (and painted) boat is from Mawardi of Projek Travel - a guy that never fail to surprise me with his videos and historical information (my partner in crime on culture content, so I myself claimed).
Those that know me, knows me well and those in this trip (mostly new friends) were making fun of my 'angkat tangan-saya ada soalan' way of getting information. A habit (good, I hope) that I don't plan to 'unhabit' real soon, so kawan-kawan ku disana - suck it up kay! Hahahhaha... (Eh! THis entry was supposed to be article-ish tapi tetiba jadi lawak pulak [facepalm], oh well [eyes rolling]).
Motif
This vividly coloured kolae boat originated from southen part of Thailand and are used by the Malay communities there. A craft that is uniquely 'belongs to the Langkasuka Kingdom' territories, has established it presence in Malaysia east coast states namely Terrenganu and Kelantan. Usually measures approximately 12.5 metres in length is built from Malaysia local tree ie Merbau, Meranti and Cengal and is split into 4 sections namely Bangau, Penyendal, Buluh and Okok. The decoration/motifs are influenced by Thai and Malay style as one can easily see flora and fauna motifs such as lotus, sea serpents, dragon, bird, floral and etc on its Bangau.
Makara
As perahu kolek is used during the Langkasuka Kingdom period, makara is often carved and painted on the bangau and tail of the boat. Makara is a type of sea animal used by the God Vishnu during his travel at sea. Back then, they believe that the makara or animal motifs are able to communicate with the wild sea and will safeguard the them/fishermen from evil spirits of the sea.
Offering
I was made to understand that during those days, offering tradition is actively practised where the offerings are put onto banana leaves depicting a boat shape. This 'boat' is later being floated into the sea as an offering to the spirit of the sea.
Superstitious
Perahu kolek is a tool for the fishermen to earn a living hence it is treated with the highest respect. It comes as no surprise that some are still superstitious when it comes to stepping into the kolae - shoes are not allowed inside the boat, running too was not allowed near the bangau section, urination and defecation should not take place near the bow and profanity is a no-no.
Offering
I was made to understand that during those days, offering tradition is actively practised where the offerings are put onto banana leaves depicting a boat shape. This 'boat' is later being floated into the sea as an offering to the spirit of the sea.
Superstitious
Perahu kolek is a tool for the fishermen to earn a living hence it is treated with the highest respect. It comes as no surprise that some are still superstitious when it comes to stepping into the kolae - shoes are not allowed inside the boat, running too was not allowed near the bangau section, urination and defecation should not take place near the bow and profanity is a no-no.
Doa
Muslim has taken the lead in Malaysia hence reciting dua - seeking protection from Allah is being practised heavily now.
Where can you experience Perahu Kolek
You can check out Perahu Kolek as well as the floating market at Pengkalan Datu - Cerana Villa Resort.
Muslim has taken the lead in Malaysia hence reciting dua - seeking protection from Allah is being practised heavily now.
Where can you experience Perahu Kolek
You can check out Perahu Kolek as well as the floating market at Pengkalan Datu - Cerana Villa Resort.
#JejakWarisanBachok and #JejakAdiguru 2023 Media Fam Trip is organized by Tourism Malaysia Wilayah Timur in partnership with all its sponsors.
#TourismMalaysiaWilayahTimur #CutiCutiMalaysia
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