Life off the grid: Pulau Raya residents embrace simplicity and unity
TANAH MERAH: Pulau Raya, once home to just 30 Chinese residents, has seen its population grow to nearly 50, now including several Malay families who have settled there in recent years.
Accessible only by a single bridge linking it to Kampung Jelatok, the island remains a close-knit community.
Great-grandson of the island's founder, Chung Ting Bun, 80, said it was once a dense jungle before his ancestor and a few companions from China arrived some 200 years ago.
"My grandfather told me that our ancestors and his friends came from China and decided to settle here.
"Over time, they cleared the land and established a small community, which eventually became known as Pulau Raya," said Chung, a fruit farmer and father of four.
Initially, he said, only a few Chinese families lived on the island.
"Life was tough and remains challenging because we're far from town and have limited access to basic services.
"But over the years, some Malay families have moved in, and our community has slowly grown.
"We will soon get a new bridge connecting our village to the nearest town," he said.
Today, about 50 families call the island home, he said.
He said most villagers work as fruit farmers, cultivating orchards that produce durian, duku and dokong.
"The produce is sold in the nearby town of Tanah Merah, about a 10-minute drive away," he said.
A recent check found that the island still lacks essential facilities such as a clinic, school or bank.
All medical appointments, shopping and other necessities must be done in Tanah Merah.
Despite the challenges, residents here take pride in their harmonious lifestyle and strong sense of community.
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