Malay Teacher Turns To 'Kolam' To Promote Unity

By N. Kuvineshwaren

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- Teacher Mohd Bakri Talib is likely one of the few non-Indians to have mastered the intricate art of creating vibrant kolam designs. His creations have gained attention on TikTok, proving that this ancient South Indian art form can become a meaningful bridge between communities.

Mohd Bakri, who is in his 40s and teaches at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Zon R1 Wangsa Maju here, told Bernama he first became interested in kolam back in 2005 when he took Tamil language classes at Universiti Putra Malaysia.

“That’s when I began learning more about Indian culture and was drawn to the beauty and intricacy of kolam designs,” he said.

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Kolam is made by creating intricate, symmetrical patterns on the floor, using materials such as rice flour, coloured rice or flower petals.  

Mohd Bakri said it all started after he joined community-level kolam competitions held at supermarkets and Galaxy Ampang Walk here. After winning several of these contests, he became more determined to explore the art form seriously.

He has also been commissioned to create kolam for Deepavali celebrations at business premises and offices.

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“My first commissioned kolam was for 1 Shamelin in Kuala Lumpur. Since then, more people have come to recognise my small talent. What means most to me is that I treat every kolam I create as a special gift to my Indian friends across Malaysia,” he said.

Interestingly, Mohd Bakri has no formal background in visual arts. His passion and curiosity led him to learn to draw complex kolam designs from the Internet as well as through observation. 

“I start by sketching the design on paper or digitally, then I choose colours that suit the Deepavali theme and arrange the materials (rice or rice powder) on the floor. Although I’ve never had a teacher, a renowned kolam artist recently offered to mentor me, which I’m truly grateful for,” he said.

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For competitions, he is usually given two to three hours to complete his design, while commissioned works may take three to six hours, depending on the size of the kolam.

Although kolam is associated with Indian culture, Mohd Bakri’s participation as a Muslim has never been met with controversy. In fact, he said the support he receives has been overwhelming.

“My friends and the community have been very encouraging. I always ensure that my designs are appropriate — featuring flowers, geometric shapes and patterns without religious elements. I see this art form as a bridge that unites Malaysians,” he said.

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What touches him most is the warm acceptance from the Indian community, who deeply appreciate his dedication.

Winning against more experienced participants in several kolam competitions remains one of his proudest moments, something he regards as both a blessing and recognition of his effort to become Malaysia’s first Malay kolam artist.

He believes that learning and embracing other cultures should never be an issue, but rather be seen as a sign of mutual respect. Mohd Bakri also welcomes anyone who wishes to learn to draw kolam from him, as long as it is done with sincerity and appreciation for the culture.

“Kolam is not just decorative art… it reflects the harmony of Malaysian society. As long as we respect boundaries and sensitivities, this art will continue to unite us,” he added.

-- BERNAMA