MONOXYLE

The Moken utilize the kabang as their main form of transportation and their home. The hull is composed of two parts a superstructure and a keel carved from the monoxyle dugout. Drawing emphasis to their progression and adaption throughout history from the forest to the vast sea.

Additionally, hunting is the main activity that takes place on the kabang. Since the Moken believe all species posses a soul or spirit; hunting becomes a symbolic and ritual practice.

SOUL + SPIRIT

Although hunting is a symbolic and spiritual activity; there are a few animals that are hunted that have spirits: the wild pig on land, turtles and manta rays at sea, and some birds in the air. The Moken carve and paint spirit poles, seen to the left, which allow them to summon and connect with their ancestors. The poles are features in a three day festival during the 15th cycle of the moon. Offerings of food are placed on houseboats and launched into the sea for the spirits.

“Dolphins and whales are not harpooned; they have a soul and represent the double of dead shamans and mediumsso their appearance causes a respectful silence. Another species of monkey is considered as a double, probably an ancestor, as it is called Ebab (“grandfather”, “male ancestor”) by the Moken and therefore is not hunted.”

The Moken children are born with a genetic adaption that allows them to see underwater with perfect vision. However, as they grow older this genetic adaptation begins to dissipate.