A Study of the Traditional Boats Perahu Kolek in Kelantan: Design, Material, and Boatbuilding

Abstract

This paper attempts to explore the traditional boat in Kelantan in terms of design, material, and technique. Kelantan which is in the area of the east coast of the Malaysian peninsular had a unique traditional boat, the so-called Perahu Kolek, and it can only be found in this state. Thus, it is important to identify the design, materials used, and involving equipment to build the Perahu Kolek in Kelantan. The qualitative methodology has been used to gather all important information related to the Perahu Kolek. Purposive sampling has been chosen to identify the respondents involved like the Perahu Kolek boatbuilders, academic researchers, government agencies, and fishermen of Pantai Sabak area in Kelantan. As result, the Perahu Kolek boatbuilder do not draw the boat design, instead the design comes from their mind and the existing Perahu Kolek as additional guidance. The main material to build the Perahu Kolek is from wooden base, the so-called Cengal (balanocarpus heimii) due to its durability and endurance. The boatbuilding process is similar compared to the other Malay traditional boats, in Malaysia; however, the uniqueness of the Perahu Kolek is about decorative components. The variety of ornaments carved and specially painted on this boat has a unique carving and looks attractive. This decorating work requires meticulousness and has expertise in certain motifs on the boat. The choice of color depends on the taste of the owner of the Perahu Kolek. As conclusion, Perahu Kolek not only has been used for fishing activity, but it also has a potential in the tourism sector as cruising boat due to its attractive decoration and colorful.