Pulau Banggi Finds Its Identity As Development Transforms Island Life

KUDAT, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- Pulau Banggi, Malaysia’s largest island, once a wilderness without basic amenities, has now found its identity as a developing island community.

Every ferry and speedboat journey from Kudat, about 70 kilometres away, brings passengers to a world transformed — paved roads, telecommunications towers and power lines have changed the rhythm of daily life for its people.

The transformation has reshaped the island’s spirit. Once cut off, residents now enjoy internet connectivity, clean water and electricity, which have brought harmony and new opportunities into their lives.

Baki Alim, 52, from Kampung Batu Layar, said he was born on the island where his ancestors also lived.

“We have always wanted development equal to other places. Looking back before and just after independence, there was nothing here, no facilities, life was hard. But year after year, things have changed and we are proud to see how far we’ve come.

“We are very grateful to the government for bringing progress here, creating jobs and improving our lives,” said Baki, who now works as a machinery operator.

He said that since this month, islanders no longer need to travel to Kudat to spend the RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) appreciation aid, as it can now be used at five shops on the island.

“Previously, I had to go to Kudat to redeem SARA, which was not worth it because ferry fare is RM23 one way. Now we can use it here at five shops, which is much easier and the goods available are sufficient,” he said.

Baki said job opportunities have also grown on the island with the opening of shops, plantations and other businesses, most of which employ local residents.

For trader Asniah Bungsu, 50, from Kampung Batu Putih, the improvement in road access has made it easier to travel daily from her village to Karakit, where she has sold local delicacies for the past 20 years.

“In the past we had to walk and sometimes sleep overnight at the stall because it was far from the village. Now things are very different. I can even sell through WhatsApp.

“With the internet, everything is possible — customers can order and pay online, which really helps small traders like us,” she said.

For Abdullah Apil, 55, a taxi driver from Kampung Padang 2, better roads and internet services have also been a game-changer.

“With better roads, we can take passengers anywhere without difficulty. And with phones and the internet, we don’t need to wait in the sun or rain in the car anymore. 

“Customers contact us via WhatsApp, so we can get bookings even while sitting at home. This helps not just drivers but also passengers who need our services,” he said.

However, Abdullah and other residents hope the government will continue to develop the island, especially in resolving the recent electricity supply issues.

-- BERNAMA