All countries human resource have developed it unique craft due to the inspiration to survive and tap the natural resources available around them which subsequently become the backbone of nationhood. These arts still well kept in the tradition way from father to son or old to young transfer of skills. Ways of manufacturing these arts still follow the way done centuries ago with sometime very little modernization inputted. Malaysia is no exception and tourist must come and visit these hand on to know the essence of Malaysia culture which has not yet hit the masses. We have our local designer brands which could compete with the famous 20th Century brands in terms of quality, fine intricate designs and usage.
Batik printing is only found in Asia. Using cloth, wax and some dye. Designers can produce amazing array of colors. These crafts are normally located near some beach location in Malaysia. And each state have different styles of batik artwork. Final products can make for anything but mostly the ladies use it for the national sarong kebaya. And the ikat is varied to know where it originated. Cloths like spandex, tunic, cotton, polyester and numerous fabric textures can be the base for batik artwork. The men floral shirts are notices in urban wear. The influence of ‘brands’ overwhelm its influence even in our home country. Holiday packages offer tours to the location where batik printing is done using into various sewing patterns. Clogg making which is a modified version of the Chinese footwear also become a local craft. A simple and effective all weather hardy footwear. Just some wood, a few small nails and a plastic strip about 4” by 8” put together you have a sandal.. When a person wears it you know a distance away. Sales used to be done door to door and the seller could immediately tailor make a pair in less then 15 minutes. Now only in wet markets it is used as if you don’t want to get your feet wet not such a good idea. Not mass manufactured item and due to dwindling demand a quick visit to the olden footage industry is a lasting impression.
Weaving without any preconceived format or idea the weavers of Malaysia created many unique products. No nail, glue and aided items are included. Just some cross and inter twine formula which was emulated over time keep many blind and grandmothers churning out floor mats, tissue holders and whatever they can conceive they produce. Barks of a local tree which are processed and cut into long strips plus some bamboo for framework are put together by weavers. Again found in the countryside normally along the beach fronts. These traditions keep tourist flocking here walking away mesmerized always.
Kite or Wau is the logo of our Malaysian Airlines. Due to the sunny open skies and coastal winds kite flying is a sport and a traditional craft. They are massive and skill fliers are able to guide them in the blue skies. They are handmade and colored in batik prints which are in hand with that industry which is popular in the North Eastern states of Malaysia. Competitions are held as due to the size training is involved in flying them. Magnificent to watch the large kites. Gliding in the sky above the palm trees. Due to the exodus of villagers to the cities this trade is losing its mark. Come and witness this scene on the east coast.
Boat and yacht is a must visit industry when touring Penang or Kota Bahru. No plans or computer designs are involved. On the banks of certain river spring fine labor intensive docks designing ocean going vessels. Foreign owners make their way to get their dream sailing ships designed and commissioned by Malay boat builders. They use traditional tools and couch out of the timber refined masterpieces with all the modern aids fitted like seen in pictures of lifestyle magazines.
Shadow dancing is a form of entertainment for before the infiltration of cinemas into the sea board lands. A stage will be set up and behind a white screen a 30watt bulb will light up the back stage and puppet characters will cast a shadow on the screen coordinated by a couple of coordinators who give life to the puppet. Enact famous old stories with full sound and action. These puppets are made intricately with fine costumes which the light can shine it rays through to cast the fine shadow of the character.
Like all countries has its unique craft inventions which gave the nation its brand and Malaysia has it too. Cannot compare the differences and pass a comment on the fineness between different countries. As the final craft is sourced from the resources of the land. The creation of the art which we now just cruise over when on a holiday package was conceptualized to serve a survival need in previous years. The products we have today go out of production with a new model but yesteryear craft have tested the modern civilization pressures because was to just serve basic human need rather for profits. Visit Malaysia as it keeping its crafts and people real technology intact to go hand in hand with modern lifestyle.
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