Fishing for knowledge

The people of Kuala Sangga place huge importance on education, judging by how well they’ve maintained their only school.

rials, bring them over in our boats, and work together on the repairs.”

The library opposite the school is open to public, which Lim said is great because it encourages everyone in the village to read and learn more.

This focus on education exists in Kuala Sangga – especially among those of Lim’s age – even though it is one of the main reasons their way of life is slowly dying.

Many who complete primary school will then move to the mainland to attend secondary school, as there isn’t room for one in Kuala Sangga. Many of them return, but many never come back either.

“Of course it’s great the young people are improving themselves,” said Lim. “Young people don’t want to stay here anymore, and it’s okay. They can have more comfortable lives and better jobs away from here.”

Lim himself relocated his family to the mainland years ago, as some of his children attend secondary school there.

Fortunately, his eldest son, now 25, is still helping him in the fishing trade. They commute to Kuala Sangga by boat daily.

“I’ll keep fishing here for as long as I can, but it’s a dying industry. Young people don’t want such jobs,” said Lim.

Nevertheless, Lim believes SRJK (C) Poay Chee has an important role to play in the futures of the children of Kuala Sangga – whether or not they end up staying in the village.