Jangkar

A jangkar (also spelled "jangkar" in Indonesian and Malay) is a traditional anchor used primarily in Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore. The term refers to a specific type of anchor design, often constructed from wood and stone, and is distinct from more modern metallic anchor designs like those found in Western seafaring traditions.

Typically, a jangkar consists of a heavy stone or piece of coral secured within a wooden frame. The wooden frame acts to provide leverage and grip when the anchor is deployed. The exact construction varies depending on local resources and the size of the vessel it is intended to hold. They are usually deployed on smaller boats and vessels operating in shallow waters, rivers, and coastal areas.

The jangkar's effectiveness relies on its weight and the ability of the wooden frame to dig into the seabed. While not as efficient as modern anchors in challenging conditions, the jangkar is relatively simple to construct using locally available materials, making it a practical and historically significant maritime tool. Its continued use reflects the long history of seafaring in the region and the adaptation of technology to suit local needs and resources.