JASIN, Nov 9 — As campaigning for the 16th Melaka State Election intensifies, a kelong (offshore fishing platform) off Pantai Siring here offers visitors a peaceful retreat, allowing them to unwind and experience the quieter side of coastal life.
Just a five-minute boat ride from shore, Kelong Tiga Nur, run by a local fisherman, attracts anglers and leisure seekers looking to relax while enjoying scenic views of nearby islands.
Its operator, Raduan Bodot, 62, said the kelong, which began operations in early January last year, has attracted visitors from other states and Singapore, with some returning regularly to enjoy its relaxing atmosphere and facilities.
“We get bookings almost every day from visitors wanting to spend the night at the kelong. Some have even booked their fishing trips as far ahead as September next year.
Fisherman Raduan Bodot, 62, showing his octopus catch, which is used as bait by anglers, during a survey off Pantai Siring. — Bernama pic
“I always put our visitors’ comfort first. That’s why we provide bedrooms, mattresses, a kitchen, a surau (prayer room) and bathrooms, as well as breakfast, so they can enjoy their stay here,” he told Bernama here recently.
According to Raduan, the kelong can accommodate up to 20 people at a time, with a daily rental fee of RM1,200.
He said the idea of building the kelong came about as he looked for ways to earn extra income amid declining fish catches and the challenges of making a living as a fisherman.
“At my age, I can’t go out to sea as often as I used to, and with fish catches getting smaller, it’s becoming even harder.
Some of the seashells used to catch octopuses during a survey off Pantai Siring. — Bernama pic
“So, I started thinking about what I could do to overcome the problem and eventually decided to build a kelong,” he said, adding that he named it after his three children.
Measuring about 50 feet by 100 feet, the kelong was built entirely using Raduan’s savings, accumulated through careful spending, with construction beginning in December last year before it opened in January this year.
Raduan also supplements his income by selling octopuses to visitors who use them as bait when fishing around the kelong.
Fisherman Raduan Bodot, 62, looking at his octopus catch, which is used as bait by anglers, during a survey off Pantai Siring. — Bernama pic
He said he started catching octopuses two to three years ago after noticing demand for them among anglers.
Interestingly, Raduan places seashells on the seabed to provide shelter for octopuses, making them easier to catch.
He said smaller octopuses sell for RM5 each, while larger ones fetch RM10, helping him earn extra income.
Raduan also hoped to secure funding from government agencies to upgrade the kelong’s facilities and help boost tourism in the Pantai Siring area. — Bernama