Pak Tambang

This relief sculpture depicts the unsung heroes of the Sarawak River. Made of bronze and mosaic and approximately 2m x 3m in size it is dedicated to the many generations of boatmen ( Pak Tambang) who have dedicated their lives for the safety and comfort of residents and visitors they successfully ferry daily. 'Tambang' refers to the small boat that they row or paddle (before) but now powered by a small inboard engine to cross the still waters of the Sarawak River around the Kuching waterfront area. This sculpture is located at the Kuching waterfront area.

River boat ferry

You need to board this small river boat ferry, locally called 'perahu tambang' to cross the Sarawak River that meanders by the Kuching City centre area. Fare is RM0.50 per crossing. The still waters of the Sarawak river makes the crossing a breeze. The boat is powered by a small inboard engine.

Boarding a 'Tambang' boat at Kuching Waterfront

I was attracted to the yellow advertising board on top of this small boat that residents on both sides of the Sarawak River use to cross its relatively calm waters daily.   There are plenty of pontoons where these boats locally called 'Perahu Tambang'  are berthed on the Kuching waterfront area. A one way trip costs RM 0.50 ( 50 sen) and takes less than ten minutes. The small boat is fitted with a tiny powered  propeller engine that makes it glides almost noiselessly through the river.