Towards Sustainable Cultural Heritage: Exploring Buah pir and Abah-abah in Perahu Besar Terengganu

Abstract

This study investigates the components of the sails, specifically the pulley blocks (Buah pir) and rigging (Abah-abah), of the Perahu Besar Terengganu, a traditional Malay vessel renowned for its contribution during its glorious period. Recognized as the most complex Malay traditional watercraft that remains until today, the Perahu Besar exemplifies the pinnacle of Malay naval technology in its components. Central to its components of sail, the Buah pir and Abah-abah demonstrate remarkable efficiency in sailing while addressing occupational safety and health concerns far ahead of their time. This qualitative research employed open-ended interviews and observations as primary methods, complemented by literature reviews to provide historical context, given the limited documentation on the Buah pir. Data were analyzed using Atlas.Ti 24 software and validated by the Maritime Unit of the Terengganu State Museum. The findings identified eight types of Buah pir, each associated with a corresponding Abah-abah, which function as stays, sheets, and halyards in the sail system. These components showcase the ingenuity of traditional boatbuilders, prioritizing functionality, efficiency, and sustainability. The study preserved the original Malay terms in the findings section to promote the resilience of the authentic traditional Terengganu Malay terms. The study contributes to preserving cultural heritage and also opening new avenues for exploring the materials and construction techniques of Malay traditional Malay perahu. It also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11.4 by emphasizing the significance of protecting and celebrating the world’s cultural and natural heritage, shedding light on the profound wisdom embedded in traditional maritime technologies.