The Malaysian Insight

A 10-MINUTE boat ride to Kuala Terengganu only costs RM1 per trip for the villagers of Kampung Seberang Takir.

These trips are serviced by small, roofed water taxis known as bot penambang.

This used to be the only way for locals to get daily supplies from the city before a bridge connecting Kuala Terengganu to the village was built.

The penambang jetty, which is the main transport hub where the water taxis dock, may see even less traffic now that the state government has plans to build a second bridge. For the boat operators, this new development poses a concern that many will opt to use the new bridge instead of the boat service.

For now, boats are still the fastest mode of transport, as taking the existing bridge doubles the travelling time.

The boats are also the best way for visitors to see Kampung Seberang Takir, as many cottage industries are located just a stone’s throw away from the jetty, from the manufacturing  of food items such as belacan and anchovies, to batik printing.

However, these industries may soon fade away as the younger generation have no interest in continuing the business. – September 5, 2017.