Kuala lumpur: Wan Mohd Zain Wan Jaafar, 57, a rubber tapper from Kampung Padang Licin has received a financial windfall by making homemade fibreglass boats thanks to his determination, effort and penchant of watching YouTube.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wan Mohd Zain learned how to make the boats by watching YouTube videos and became seriously determined when the rainy season made it hard for him to tap rubber. He initially took up boat-making as a hobby to fill his free time. However, after experiencing several floods in his village since 2022, he realized this skill could provide financial support for his family.

Since June, Wan Mohd Zain has committed to making and selling boats. He has received positive responses, especially from nearby flood-prone areas. Working alongside his friend Sukri Zakaria, 53, Wan Mohd Zain can complete an 18-foot boat in five or six days, depending on the weather. This allows them to produce about three boats a month, each accommodating two to three people, and selling for RM1,350 including delivery.

Wan Mohd Zain acknowledged the high demand for the boats and expressed gratitude for his friend’s assistance. Currently, they have five bookings, primarily from local villagers, with one order from a friend in Kuala Lumpur for use in Kelantan.

One of the buyers, Daud Ismail, 72, from Kampung Gual Mesa, decided to purchase a boat after his home was previously flooded with chest-high waters. With six family members, including his wife, three children, and a grandchild, Daud emphasized the necessity of having a boat in their low-lying, flood-prone area.