In the serene waters of the West Johor Strait, thousands of blue barrels float idly, marking the sites of mussel cultivation. These belong to Jefree Salim, a 43-year-old third-generation farmer from Malaysia’s indigenous Seletar community, known for their deep ties to the sea spanning generations.
A Lifelong Bond with the Sea
Jefree has dedicated over two decades to mussel farming, a skill passed down from his father and grandfather. Though he once tried working on land, he found himself drawn back to the ocean. “I’ve tried jobs on shore, but something always pulled me back to these waters,” he shared.
The Demands of the Trade
The work is far from simple, involving constant monitoring of the barrels and battling environmental factors that affect yields. Jefree doubts his two young daughters, aged 10 and 8, will follow in his footsteps given the hardships involved. Instead, he urges them to prioritize education while staying connected to their heritage. “Focus on your studies, but never lose sight of where you come from,” he advises.
