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Water taxi still preferred mode of transport

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Abdul Rahim and his perahu tambang are ready to serve the villagers.
BY MOHAMMAD FIKRI JAMAL

THE lack of a road leading to Kampung Seberang Kedai in Limbang has made the perahu tambang (water taxi) a preferred mode of transport for the villagers to go to town.

This perahu tambang service is still relevant to more than 1,000 residents of Kampung Seberang Kedai and its surrounding area, including tourists.

Abdul Rahim

A penambang (boat operator), Abdul Rahim Ramli, said he not only helps to earn income for his family; it is also something passed down from his grandfather.

“I took over this job from my father and grandfather over 30 years ago.

“Most of my passengers are school students, workers, and traders who want to go to Limbang town.

“Sometimes, I also bring local or foreign tourists along Sungai Limbang to enjoy the scenery.

“They are also interested in seeing crocodiles up close,” he said, adding that he usually advised tourists who want to see crocodiles do so when it’s low tide.

The 48-year-old said he prioritises the safety of his passengers and makes sure that every passenger wears a safety jacket first.

“Every perahu tambang must provide safety jackets that must be replaced when they are worn out.

“Due to the relatively expensive price (reaching RM100 per unit), me and my other fellow penambang friends very much welcome donations from any party.

“Apart from the safety jackets, I also need a fire extinguisher, which is also a must-have,” he said.

Meanwhile, when asked about the ferry service operating in the area, Abdul Rahim admitted that it has affected his daily income.

This is because villagers who live around Sungai Limbang can just bring their vehicles using the ferry.

“Only the residents of Kampung Seberang Kedai still using my services as there are still no roads connected to the village.

“I usually earn more than RM200 a day (before the ferry service) but now it is quite difficult to earn even RM100 a day as it’s not enough to cover my family’s expenses.

“Nevertheless, this does not dampen my spirit to continue to provide perahu tambang services to villagers and tourists,” said the Kampung Seberang Kedai native.

Abdul Rahim works from Monday to Friday while on weekends he will go to sea with other fishermen to earn extra income.

An aerial view of Limbang town.

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