bajak

Bajak refers to a type of traditional wooden plow used in agriculture, particularly in Southeast Asia. Its design is simple, typically consisting of a wooden frame with a metal share, or plowshare, that cuts into the soil. The share is often made of iron or steel and is shaped to turn over the soil, preparing it for planting. The bajak is usually pulled by draft animals, most commonly water buffaloes or oxen.

The use of bajak has been a cornerstone of agricultural practices for centuries, enabling the cultivation of rice paddies and other crops. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to break up compacted soil, incorporate crop residue, and create a more favorable seedbed. While modern machinery has largely replaced the bajak in many developed agricultural regions, it remains in use in some rural areas where access to technology is limited or where traditional farming methods are preferred. The bajak's affordability, simplicity of construction, and reliance on readily available animal power make it a sustainable option for smallholder farmers. The skills associated with operating a bajak and managing the draft animals are often passed down through generations.