KEEP PADDLING: Abdul Rahman leaves for Sibu Central Market after transporting goods to a coffee shop.
ENERGETIC: Trishaw man Abdul Rahman waits patiently for passengers who like the quaint mode of transport.
Datuk Talib Zulpilip
SIBU: The trishaw may no longer be a common means of transport, but its nostalgic value still appeals to tourists, said Assistant Tourism Minister Datuk Talib Zulpilip.
“Those of my generation will remember fondly the rare ‘beca’ ride. A great treat it was. To tourists, it would have its novelty value,” Talib told The Borneo Post.
According to Ravera Holidays Sdn Bhd’s Products Research and Development manager Melintan Ina, Sibu could be the only place in Borneo where trishaw is still used for transport.
Melintan, who noted it as a dying trade, believes that trishaw, like the longboat, is a national heritage in the transport sector.
He said trishaws captivated tourists and thus should be capitalized on for in-bound tourism promotion.
To this, Talib, who is Jepak assemblyman, added: “If there are rickshaw owners who want to do this, why not. It provides good income and adds variety, colour and photo-shoot opportunities. This should be explored seriously.”
Meanwhile, there are only a handful of trishaw operators here.
Abdul Rahman, although nearing 70, still peddles a trishaw for a living.
He welcomed the idea of using the trishaw service to lure tourists.
He only ferries passengers residing close to the town such as Tiong Hua Road, Tong Sang
Road, Bukit Assek Road and the like.
“This idea will provide extra income for us as most of our regular clients are the elderly staying close to the town. At times, we also help send items, including spare parts to the wharf,” Abdul Rahman said.
He said on a good day, he can earn about RM30.