‘My heart belongs to the sea’: Life as a third-generation mussel farmer

Key Concepts

• Kupang (Oysters): The primary focus of the video – oysters being farmed for livelihood.
• Generational Farming: The practice of oyster farming being passed down through three generations of a family.
• Sungai Temun: The Orang Asli (Indigenous) village where the oyster farming takes place, located in the Johor Strait.
• Rakit (Rafts): The floating structures used for oyster cultivation.
• Subsistence & Commercial Farming: The evolution of oyster farming from a side income to a primary source of revenue.

Livelihood and Family History in Kupang Farming

Jefri Salim, a 43-year-old, identifies his motivation for oyster farming (Kupang) as providing for his family. Despite having previously worked on land, he ultimately returned to the sea, continuing a family tradition. He represents the third generation of Kupang farmers in Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temun. The surrounding environment is visibly characterized by numerous rafts (ribuan tong rakit) dedicated to oyster cultivation.

The Evolution of Kupang Farming – From Side Hustle to Main Income

Jefri explains that his grandfather and father initially engaged in Kupang farming as a supplementary income source. Their primary livelihood was traditional fishing – catching fish, shrimp, and crabs. However, due to consistently high demand, oyster farming gradually transformed into a stable and reliable source of income for the family and the community. This shift highlights the economic importance of Kupang farming within Sungai Temun.

Oyster Size and Future Generations

The video briefly addresses the harvestable size of the oysters. Jefri indicates that oysters approximately 2 inches in length (2 inci setengah macam niilah, 2 inci 2 in set lah macam niilah) are typically ready for harvest.

Jefri expresses his hope that future generations will continue the tradition of Kupang farming in the Johor Strait (Selat Johor). He emphasizes the deep connection between his community and the sea, stating, “Itu amat penting bagi generasi akan datanglah” (That is very important for future generations). This underscores the cultural significance of oyster farming beyond its economic benefits.

Connection to Orang Asli Community & Marine Environment

The video implicitly highlights the importance of marine resources to the Orang Asli community of Sungai Temun. The reliance on Kupang farming and traditional fishing demonstrates a sustainable relationship with the Johor Strait. Jefri’s statement about the community’s closeness to the sea reinforces this connection and the need to preserve it for future generations.

Synthesis

The video provides a concise glimpse into the life of a third-generation oyster farmer in Sungai Temun. It illustrates how Kupang farming has evolved from a supplemental activity to a vital source of income and cultural identity for the Orang Asli community. Jefri Salim’s narrative emphasizes the importance of preserving this tradition for future generations, recognizing the inseparable link between the community and the marine environment of the Johor Strait. The video serves as a testament to the sustainability and resilience of traditional practices in the face of economic and environmental changes.