Malaysia · Woodworking / Boat Building
Pembuatan Lepa-Lepa / Perahu Lepa
The lepa is the traditional boat of the Sama-Bajau of Semporna, Sabah. Its keel is a shallow dugout (tadas or lunas) built up with strakes and sideboards; parts are joined with wooden dowels (tambuko) and fiber lashings rather than nails. Lepa are decorated with okil floral carving, often with a large carved bowsprit (jungal), carry a single removable sail, and typically measure about 9–15 meters. The annual Regatta Lepa in Semporna — its 31st edition in 2026 — celebrates the boatbuilding tradition with a decorated-lepa competition.
Risk level: Critically Endangered · Not inscribed
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