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In sea-related traditions, the Malay community, particularly fishermen, uses various materials that hold both symbolic and practical significance in performing their rituals and practices.

Sea Tools

Boats or Sampans: These are the main modes of transport for fishermen at sea, serving not only as carriers of their catch but also as symbols of the journey and effort to earn a livelihood from the sea.

Nets: Nets are used to catch fish. Symbolically, they represent the interaction with the sea, where honest and respectful efforts yield fruitful results.

Ships: For communities with larger-scale operations, ships symbolize significant endeavors and movements at sea.

Natural Materials

Sea Water: This is often used in rituals for purification, such as washing hands or symbolizing self-cleansing before undertaking activities.

Sea Sand: Sometimes used as a symbol of harmony between humans and nature, sea sand is utilized in offerings or sprinkled during blessings.

Symbolic Sea and Marine Elements

Sea Signals (Ropes or Markers): Fishermen use ropes or specific markers for communication. These sometimes hold spiritual meanings related to safety and blessings.

Weather Protection Equipment: Modern tools such as umbrellas or raincoats, though not traditional, are essential for safety against harsh weather conditions.

1. Prayers and Requests Before Setting Sail

Before starting a journey or fishing activity, fishermen seek blessings and protection from God. Specific prayers are recited to ensure safety from storms or capsizing and to bless their efforts with abundant yields.

Safety Prayers: These prayers seek safety and well-being at sea, protecting fishermen from dangers such as storms or encounters with dangerous marine creatures.

Blessing Prayers: These prayers request abundant and blessed catches to fulfill their livelihoods.

2.Prohibitions and Taboos at Sea

Several prohibitions and taboos are observed to maintain harmony with nature and prevent harm. Examples include:

Respecting the Sea and Fish: Insulting the sea or the fish caught is strictly forbidden. Fishermen must respect their catch and refrain from speaking ill of the sea.

Avoid Gossiping: Gossiping or speaking ill of others is believed to bring bad luck, emphasizing the need for purity of heart and collective harmony.

Avoid Unnecessary Killing of Marine Creatures: Killing marine life without reason is considered harmful and believed to bring disasters or reduce catches.

3. Using Communication Tools and Sea Signals

While at sea, fishermen use various signals or communication tools, such as sound or hand gestures, to interact with others. Some of these practices carry spiritual elements, fostering a deeper connection with the sea and its guardian spirits.

Using Lanterns or Fire: Lanterns are sometimes used as signals, especially at night, to provide light and seek protection from sea spirits.

4. Maintaining Harmony and Patience

Patience is a vital aspect of Malay fishermen's customs and culture. They believe the sea, with all its wealth and beauty, requires patience and perseverance.

Practicing Patience: Fishermen are mindful not to rush or act hastily, believing that good results come from perseverance.

Expressing Gratitude: After a successful catch, fishermen thank God and pray for continued sustenance in the future.

5. Group Activities

Most activities at sea are carried out in groups, fostering a sense of family and cooperation. Group activities, such as chatting or singing together, create a cheerful atmosphere, in addition to praying and maintaining patience.

Working Together: Fishermen often work in groups, helping one another to achieve better catches. This cooperation strengthens social bonds among them.

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