Whispers of the sea echo through the heart of Kampung Simpang Arang. This Orang Asli settlement stands as a testament to a unique heritage. Kampung Simpang Arang is located in Gelang Patah in Johor Bahru. It is home to the Orang Seletar people.
For generations the Orang Seletar have lived here. They have maintained a close connection to the sea. Many of them are fishermen who rely on the ocean’s bounty. Their daily lives revolve around the tides and the treasures they bring.
Komeng a 65-year-old resident has witnessed many changes. His family has been in Kampung Simpang Arang since its beginning. He has seen numerous elections come and go. For him the most important thing is the well-being of the Orang Asli community. He hopes that development around them will not affect their livelihoods.
The people of Kampung Simpang Arang have seen their village change. Modern development surrounds them. Despite this they continue to live their traditional life. Komeng and others are concerned about shrinking fishing grounds. They worry about pollution affecting their catches. They hope their voices are heard. They want their rights as residents to be respected.
Khairul a younger resident also has concerns. Access to healthcare is a major issue. The nearest clinic is in Gelang Patah. Many villagers do not have transportation. Getting to the clinic is difficult. Especially in emergencies. Khairul dreams of a clinic in Kampung Simpang Arang. This would provide vital medical care to the community. It would particularly benefit pregnant mothers. Some still give birth at home.
Kampung Simpang Arang is also linked to charcoal making. During World War Two it was a hub for this activity. Grandfathers and fathers worked hard in charcoal kilns. They traded with sea gypsies. They even supplied the Japanese during the occupation.
Today you can still see remnants of this past. Abandoned charcoal kilns stand as silent witnesses. They remind us of a time when earth was the main construction material. After the war brick kilns became more common.
The process involves harvesting Bakau wood from mangrove swamps. This wood is ideal for charcoal. The mangrove forests are protected by the Malaysian government. This ensures sustainability.
Kampung Simpang Arang is a place where tradition meets modernity. It is a place where the sea is life. It is a place where community matters. It is a place with a rich history. As we leave let us remember the stories of Kampung Simpang Arang. Let us consider the challenges faced by its people.