“Belong”
Commissioned by JEDI Penang
"Belong" is an initiative by JEDI aimed at documenting and archiving the lives led by coastal fishermen in Penang, exploring the connection between these individuals and the powerful allure of the sea. "Belong" also seeks to propagate awareness, emphasizing the crucial themes of conservation and nurturing that our oceans ardently need.
Across several weeks, we closely engaged with the diverse fishing communities across Penang. Each community expressed a multitude of reasons attributing to the dwindling yields over recent years. Mainly, the inadequacy of sound regulations in ecosystem preservation, the encroachment of land reclamation, and the escalating pollution, all emerged as key factors contributing to this decline.
A sobering reality emerges as many of these fishermen represent the final generation, their livelihoods affected by the declining catches. As their struggles intensify, the younger generation is nudged towards more financially rewarding and contemporary vocations, rendering this project not just a documentation, but a vital chronicle of a fading profession.
A huge thanks to Evelyn, Andrew, and the dedicated team at JEDI for the opportunity to partake in this significant initiative.
For further insights into their impactful work, and to support their initiative, visit jedinetwork.org
