Only a few fishing boats remain at the once bustling village of Bagan Teluk Rhu in Sg Ayer Tawar. (Above) A resident checks her guava fruits. Many villagers occupy their time by tending to their gardens. — Photos: SIA HONG KIAU/The Star
NESTLED on the northern coast of Selangor, Bagan Teluk Rhu in Sungai Ayer Tawar may seem like just another seaside village.
But its silent shores echo a time when the hustle and bustle of fishermen’s boats filled the air and waterways.
The 1970s were the golden years of the village, when each house had at least one fishing boat and the waters were alive with the anticipation of a rich catch.
Rain clouds over picturesque Bagan Teluk Rhu.
Bagan means “jetty” in Bahasa Malaysia, which was a fitting name for the village because back then it was home to over 200 people and a hive of seagoing activity with some 30 fishing boats in use daily.
These days, Bagan Teluk Rhu epitomises the simplicity and tranquillity of traditional kampung life with a mere 20 houses and a population of 50 residents.
Just a handful of boats head out to the sea for a catch occasionally.
The younger generation’s migration to urban areas in search of better opportunities and prospects has left the village in the hands of mostly retired folk, who are content to lead a slow-paced and relaxed life.
An overall view of Bagan Teluk Rhu which was once a busy fishing village on the northern coast of Selangor. These days, only about 50 residents remain in the village.
