Innovative Use Of Colours Enhances Appeal Of Orang Asli Crafts

BANTING, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- The innovative use of colours and patterns in traditional woven products are boosting demand and increasing the popularity of Orang Asli crafts, contributing to the economic growth of the rural community.

A Bernama survey at the Orang Asli Craft Centre in Kampung Sungai Bumbun, Carey Island, found that many Orang Asli stalls are offering a wide range of colourful woven products such as mats, baskets, bags, bookmarks and accessories, including earrings and rings.

For young Orang Asli artisan Mahasinin Mahamad, 18, introducing vibrant colour variations and modern designs has breathed new life into traditional weaving that previously garnered only modest attention from the public, including international tourists.

“The products appear more exclusive with bright colours. They stand out more when we combine several colours in the weaving process compared to earlier products, which looked more subdued.

“Previously, we mostly used natural colours in our woven products. Now, we mix soft and bright hues to create a more modern look. Colour also plays an important role in attracting customers,” he told Bernama at Pasar Mui Mahmeri at the Orang Asli Craft Centre in Kampung Sungai Bumbun, Carey Island, Kuala Langat today.

Mahasinin, who is from the Mahmeri ethnic group, said the use of modern colours is not merely a decorative element, but a strategy to capture the interest of urban customers and foreign tourists who prefer ethnic products with contemporary styles.

Meanwhile, Orang Asli craft entrepreneur Zubaidah Karim, 47, said the community in her area had to explore new approaches by incorporating colour elements into their woven products to boost sales, as the younger generation is becoming less inclined to continue the craft legacy.

“Young people today struggle to develop an interest because the craft demands patience. The process takes a long time and requires a high level of precision, especially when producing items with specific artistic features.

“They typically start by learning the basic Pahat weaving technique before progressing to finer and more intricate forms and patterns. Still, they have the potential to create quality products if they learn quickly,” she said.

Zubaidah said patterned and coloured products such as sumbo duri (rice containers), baskets and mats could fetch higher prices as they are larger and more finely crafted, depending on the weaving materials such as nipah leaves or rattan.

“Prices depend on size and craftsmanship. Smaller items are priced between RM30 and RM40, while larger ones can fetch RM80 to RM100. Everything is handmade and takes a long time to complete,” she said.

At the same time, Samiyah Sabak, 44, said there is a perception among the public that Orang Asli crafts are expensive and not practical for everyday use.

She said Orang Asli crafters are open to discussing custom-made items based on the customer’s budget.

“Not everything is expensive; some are affordable. If customers have special requests, we are willing to discuss and accommodate their needs,” she said.

The two-day Pasar Mui Mahmeri 2025 event, which began yesterday, provided opportunities for 11 Orang Asli villages in Selangor to generate income and showcase the uniqueness of the Mahmeri community through the ‘pasar sehari’ (day market) concept.

-- BERNAMA