BY CRYSTAL ANING
CURIOSITY led Philip Ukin, 58, a Melanau pensioner to learn the art of fibreglass boat building.
And today the native of Bungan Kecil Village in Batang Igan who had previously worked as a lecturer at Sibu Vocational College, has made a business out of making fibreglass boats or fibreglass longboats.
Besides building boats, Philip also offers additional services such as boat repairs, creating boat benches, and flooring.
To his credit the local community has responded positively to Philip’s boat-making endeavours, and he receives repair orders from customers in Sarikei.
Apart from promoting his business through face-to-face interactions with people in the vicinity, he utilises social media platforms like Facebook to reach a wider audience.
Customer satisfaction and the use of quality materials are Philip’s top priorities when fulfilling orders.
He ensures the boats are suitable for various horsepower engines and adds his personal touch to his boats by incorporating unique paint patterns, a youthful spirit, and three ski bottoms, setting them apart from mass-produced vessels.
Crafting a homemade boat requires considerable time, typically at least five days but Philip has hired experienced workers to assist him in the boat-making process.
Manufacturing a boat costs approximately RM3,000, including various materials such as fibreglass glue, paint, cloth, gel coat, and others which
Philip sources from his supplier in Sibu.
Given his success thus far he is looking to expand his business further and creating employment opportunities for local residents.
For inquiries and reservations, visit Philip Ukin’s Facebook page.
