Tengku Permaisuri Selangor Graces Launch Of ‘Telepuk, Forgotten Flowers Of Gold’ Book

SHAH ALAM, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin today graced the launch of the book ‘Telepuk, Forgotten Flowers of Gold’ at the Raja Tun Uda Library here.

Her Royal Highness arrived at 10 am and was greeted by the Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) director, Datin Paduka Mastura Muhamad, and the founder of the Langkasuka Movement and publisher of the book, Abdul Razak Aziz.

Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin also graciously delivered the officiating speech to mark the launch of the English-language book.

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Her Royal Highness then toured an exhibition featuring items used in telepuk craftsmanship and witnessed a demonstration of the artistic process before attending a light refreshment session.

Meanwhile, Abdul Razak in his speech said the Langkasuka Movement acts as a mediator and solutions partner in researching, documenting and revitalising Malay heritage arts.

He said through the Langkasuka Movement, over ten books focusing on Malay arts, culture and heritage have been published, including today’s launch - a translated version of the Malay book titled ‘Telepuk, Bunga-Bunga Emas Yang Dilupai’.

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“The publication of the English edition of the book has also been enhanced with new information and the addition of catalogued artifacts,” he said.

The art of telepuk involves imprinting patterns using adhesive-coated wooden blocks on fine woven fabric, which is then overlaid with gold leaf or gold dust.

The telepuk fabric is used to create tanjak (headgear), sampin (Malay ceremonial sash), selendang (scarves), belts and handkerchiefs, which are traditionally worn at royal events and weddings.

Abdul Razak said the Langkasuka Movement’s efforts have garnered the attention of Yayasan Hasanah, which also supports the preservation of the nation’s textile heritage.

Abdul Razak also expressed his gratitude to the late Norhaiza Noordin, a prominent woodcarving expert who played a significant role in reviving the art of telepuk decoration.

“Norhaiza’s passing is deeply felt, especially by those who were fortunate enough to learn from him. Nevertheless, the spirit of Langkasuka entrusted to us will continue to burn brightly, insya-Allah,” he said.

Honoured with the prestigious ‘Tokoh Kraf Negara’, Norhaiza, affectionately known as ‘Abe Jah,’ died in hospital at the age of 61 on Dec 19 in Kota Bharu due to heart complications.

-- BERNAMA