Orang Alsi- Starting a Fire

We take it for granted that we can start a fire any time we need to by stricking a match or using a lighter. However, what did they do before they invented matches? I know that there are several ways that people have come up with to start fires (e.g., using flint, rubbing two sticks together), but I don't think that I have ever seen fire made in person.

The Batek Orang Asli had a new approach to fire starting. First, they made a chord out of plant material with handles attached to both ends. Next, they cut a groove in bamboo and placed some kindling material inside the bamboo. Finally, they created friction by pulling the chord back and forth through the groove.


It didn't take too long to see a little smoke.


Once he created a little spark he blew on the kindling to try to keep things going.


Still smoking.


The embers are glowing and there is plenty of smoke.


FIRE!!! The whole process took less than two minutes.


I thought that it was interesting that the young boys came out to watch when the men started demonstrating fire starting and the blow dart guns.