06/05/2026

WEDNESDAY | MAY 6, 2026

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Age of ancient perahu being assessed

TANAH MERAH: The age of an ancient perahu (traditional Malay boat) discovered in Kampung Bukit Kechik, Kelantan is being assessed by the National Heritage Department to determine whether it holds significant historical value. Its Archaeology Division senior curator Rokiah Abdul Samat said an initial survey was o Further study, analysis needed to determine historical value: Archaeologist

“It’s not just a place for the five daily prayers – we’ve also held tarawih , Aidilfitri, and Aidiladha prayers here,“ he said, adding that a weekly tahlil is held every Friday in remembrance of his son. Beyond congregational prayers, the surau hosts religious learning sessions led by qualified teachers twice a month, drawing steady participation from residents of all ages. Azhar noted with pride that even youths turn up on weekends and visitors from outside the village have also begun attending. Part of Ahmad Azza’s savings went towards equipping the surau with air conditioners and other essentials, ensuring worshippers remain comfortable during programmes and prayers. “It’s one way to turn his savings into an ongoing charity. “I hope the benefits it brings will earn him endless rewards.“ – Bernama this area, which was once a docking point for villagers from Danau Tok Uban, Pasir Mas and Batang Merbau, about 15km from here.” He also said the discovery holds significant historical value for the village and has the potential to become a subject of research. He expressed hope that relevant parties, including historians and archaeologists, would conduct further studies on the find. “We hope experts will come to examine the boat structure to confirm its actual age and its historical significance.” After a survey on May 2, the department said based on its physical characteristics, the boat is believed to have been constructed using local hardwood such as cengal or meranti .

was discovered when several villagers noticed what appeared to be part of a boat frame partially buried along the riverbank. He said receding water levels in recent weeks had made the structure more visible. “Initially, only a small part of the frame was visible. However, as the water level dropped, the entire structure became clearer. “Villagers then took the initiative to excavate the area to get a closer look at the actual shape of the boat.” He added that the boat’s age has yet to be determined and requires a comprehensive study by all relevant parties. “Some villagers believe the boat could be hundreds of years old, based on the history of

conducted on May 2 following the discovery to verify the findings and for documentation purposes. She added that while the discovery may not appear significant to some, the villagers’ decision to report the finding was an important step and should be emulated. “Determining the age of the boat requires further study and analysis before any conclusion could be made,” she told Bernama. Rokiah said the villagers have also shown interest in preserving and conserving the boat, including proposing that it be kept at a suitable location for display to younger generations. Meanwhile, Bukit Kechik neighbourhood watch chairman Md Noor Hassan said the boat

Surau named after fallen cop brings comfort to grieving father TAPAH: For Azhar Khaiden, 56, watching worshippers gather at Surau Al-Fahmi in Kampung Poh Tambahan near Bidor has become a quiet source of healing since the loss of his son.

His son, Constable Ahmad Azza Fahmi Azhar, 22, was among two police officers killed during an armed attack at the Ulu Tiram police station in Johor on May 17, 2024. Constable Muhamad Syafiq Ahmad Said, 24, also died in the assault, while Corporal Mohd Hasif Roslan, 38, sustained injuries. The attacker was shot and killed at the scene. Named in Ahmad Azza’s memory, the surau was established in August 2024 using a donation from the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia, and began operations in March 2025. The retired teacher said the modest prayer hall has since grown into a thriving focal point for the village.

Azhar keeps Ahmad Azza’s uniform framed on the wall of his home in Kampung Poh Tambahan, a reminder of his son’s bravery and sacrifice in the line of duty. – BERNAMAPIC

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