Traditional boats play a pivotal role in the daily lives and culture of fishermen. Known as Ngalawa, these vessels are carved from wood, lending the boats their resilience and authenticity. These craft enable fishermen to venture out to sea, catch fish, and provide for their families. The art of building these boats is a legacy passed down through generations, symbolizing not just a means of livelihood, but also a fundamental facet of the community’s cultural identity.

However, this vital natural resource for constructing the Ngalawa is increasingly under threat. Island industrialists, drawn by the value of local timber, are overharvesting the forests, resulting in an alarming decline in forest cover. This overexploitation not only jeopardizes the island’s ecological balance but also seriously undermines the fishermen’s pursuits. If this trend continues, the community stands to lose its primary source of livelihood and a crucial aspect of its cultural heritage.