Jetty is the place where one enters or leaves Galang by boat. Since there were no other means of transportation available, this was Galang only gateway to the outside world. Twice a day, a speed boat transports UN staffs and other Indonesian officials from Tanjung Pinang to Galang and conversely in the morning and afternoon.
courtesy of nguyen hoang
I came here quite often and felt inconsolable nostalgia when watching the remaining of the fishing boats which, after having taken us from Vietnam to Galang, were left rotten on nearby shores. The scene was so quiet, tranquil, which completely contrast with the camp's living atmosphere inland.
courtesy of nguyen vu kim khoi
but on departing days, when a group of refugees was about to leave Galang for other countries (including Vietnam), this peaceful atmosphere totally changed to a more emotional, dramatic scene. Seeing someone off is always difficult, especially when someone is closed, and never know if they would ever see each other again. There would be couples who one was departing leaving behind partners, sometimes with child/children.
Those scenes were heart breaking and
unbearable to watch.
courtesy of nguyen hoang
all arrivals
and departures begin here inside this building, which is
the first and
the last sight of Galang ones would see.
some
fortunate refugees leaving
Galang for
a new life in a third country
while others
stayed dreaming
of their own
departure day would come
farewell, Galang. We will never forget this place
last image to
the island we finally left behind, but the memories still remain lively
fresh in our mind, forever .
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