Charcoal Factory

An old-fashioned charcoal factory situated in Kuala Sepetang, formerly known as Port Weld, that bakes local mangrove logs in kilns.

An interesting old factory indeed to visit but let me warn you, it is mighty HOT in the factory. Be prepared to sweat buckets!

I did not know much about charcoal except that the Chinese call it 'Black Gold'. Back in the olden days, charcoal was worth its weight in gold. Before gas cookers were created, those who had abundant supply of charcoal was said to be rich. 

We managed to chat with a lady who was working alone in the factory, packing 5kg charcoal in paper bags to be sent to grocery stores. She said that each kiln can carry 10 tonnes of mangrove logs to be burnt. The fire carries on burning 24 hours for about 20 days. Then it takes 10 days (sometimes more) to cool the kiln down, to produce charcoal. 

Each kiln has a front opening which is sealed by clay. That opening has to be broken down and sealed again each time a fire is lighted, fire is put out, and when the charcoal is ready to be taken out of the kiln.

The charcoal manufacturing industry has been the flesh and blood of local residents since 1930s. This is because Port Weld is surrounded by mangrove forests with good species that produced quality charcoal. Port Weld's charcoal is considered one of the best in Asia.

Charcoal is broken into pieces and packed. Apparently, Japan is our main buyer.

Mangrove logs

See the front opening of this kiln? It has to be broken down and re-sealed whenever the logs have to be entered into the kiln or when charcoal is ready to be taken out.

Almost melted!