Ditching Gadgets, Kelantan’s Youth Return To The Hunt For 'Belalang Kerek'

By Azli Shafii

TANAH MERAH, June 19 (Bernama) -- As the traditional sport of belalang kerek, or long-horned grasshopper fighting, makes a vibrant comeback in Kelantan, the unique art of hunting and nurturing these insects is capturing the imagination of a new generation eager to revive a heritage hobby.

For die-hard enthusiasts of this traditional pastime, the process of catching and rearing belalang kerek is far from a simple routine; rather, it demands sharp creativity and a deep understanding of the insect’s natural traits.

Muhammad Sayuti Mat, 53, an active competitor from Kampung Manal 3, shared that the primary driver behind the hobby’s resurgence is its incredibly low maintenance, making it a highly affordable pastime.

"Keeping belalang kerek is simple and costs next to nothing. Their main diet consists merely of sliced cucumber and pineapple shoots,” he told Bernama in a recent interview.

Muhammad Sayuti explained that hunting for these insects is typically carried out at night, relying entirely on keen hearing.

"This is because belalang kerek emit a distinct sound at night, inadvertently signaling their exact location to the hunters.

"Typically, these grasshoppers are easily found nesting in agricultural plots or dense brush, particularly among fan palms, senduduk, and pineapple crops," he said.

A 25-year-old enthusiast, Rihduan Jamaluddin, said belalang kerek are naturally more active and vocal at night, making the evening the perfect time to host competitions once the day’s work is done.

"Their chirping is much louder and sharper after dark compared to the daytime.

"There is a real thrill in hearing the quality of their song, especially if your grasshopper wins the match, even if the prize isn’t monetary," said Rihduan, who uses the hobby as an escape from the daily grind.

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Aidil Md Noor said that a combination of incredibly low tournament entry fees, costing as little as RM3 per grasshopper, and a straightforward diet is the main reason this vintage pastime has seen such a rapid surge in popularity.

Beyond its recreational value, keeping belalang kerek serves as an intergenerational bridge that brings together hundreds of enthusiasts, creating a space where younger generations can learn time-honoured tips from veterans to keep this unique Kelantan tradition alive.

-- BERNAMA