The renovation of Bai Rekeai, the Aimeliik traditional bai, was completed this past week and turned over to the Ngarkeai Council of Chiefs yesterday by the Palau Community College President Patrick Tellei.
Bai Rekeai, one of the four traditionally constructed bai’s in Palau, was finally renovated after it had been damaged extensively by the elements.
The bai underwent renovation in 2012 after Super Typhoons Bopha and Haiyan swung it off its base, damaging the primary supports and making the bai tilt dangerously to one side.
Since then, the bai has not been maintained, and the natural materials have deteriorated, creating leaks which in turn also damage flooring and key posts.
The renovation was contracted out to Palau Community College, which has been teaching its students the traditional Palauan bai construction with traditional materials and techniques.
Dr. Patrick Tellei, during the turnover yesterday, explained to the chiefs of Ngarkeai all the areas that were damaged and were repaired or replaced. The bai looked brand new with a facelift.
Chief Rengulbai Kalistus Ngirturong, on behalf of the Ngarkeai, expressed gratitude to Dr. Tellei and the PCC for the quality of work and the craftsmanship reflected in the bai repair.
The cost of the construction is split between the State and the chiefs. The State has paid its part, and the chiefs will have a meeting next month with the PCC President to pay the nglosech, the remaining balance for the renovation of the bai.
Aimeliik Governor Browny Simer, Rengulbai Kalistus Ngirturong, and Dr. Patrick Tellei of Palau Community College executed an agreement for the renovation of the Bai in July this year with the timetable to complete construction by October 31st. The renovation was completed a month earlier than scheduled.