Terengganu – a destination for handicraft lovers

By SAKINI MOHD SAID KUALA TERENGGANU (Terengganu) Nov 23 (Bernama) -- Many people believe that the handicraft industry is for the old, as the younger generation lacks interest in it. In Malaysia, you can see some handicraft makers are gradually fading into the sunset. However, the number of entrepreneurs in the batik (cloth made using a manual wax-resist dyeing technique) and songket (handwoven silk or cotton fabric) industries has remained stagnant, not as bad as compared to the makers of brass items, who are reducing in numbers. Terengganu, a state known for its brass industry, has only 13 makers of brass items. PAYANG MARKET A glance at the Payang market shows that there is an abundance of batik and songket outfits on sale, but there is not a single brass product. But according to the state director of the Terengganu Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation, Khairul Hafizi Naharuddin, demand for brass items is overwhelming. "The turnover in the handicraft industry, under the One District One Industry programme, between January and August (this year), was RM42 million (US$13.73 million), exceeding the projected figure of RM 40 million (US$13.07 million). Brass industry contributed RM 1.2 million (US$392,252)," he told Bernama. Based on the turnover of RM1.2 million (US$392,252) within the first eight months of 2012, we can easily say that brass items are in demand, making Terengganu the destination for brass aficionados. Furthermore, this state is the only place in Malaysia that offers brass products to handicraft lovers. MOTIVATION For Khairul Hafizi, motivation is a crucial element that should be inculcated among younger people, who want to be involved in the handicraft industry. He said that efforts should be undertaken to transform the brass industry, as the process of making intricate brass items is meticulous, difficult and time consuming. This is the reason why the younger generation shies away from the brass-making industry, he said. "However, the older generation is comfortable with the techniques they have inherited. Therefore, it is difficult for them to get accustomed to technological advancements. "We do not wish to undermine their expertise but they should understand that we are incorporating technology to facilitate the production of brass items. "For example, the making of tepak sireh (betel nut tray), which previously took about two weeks, can be completed within three days through the incorporation of technology," said Khairul Hafizi. ASSISTANCE Kraftangan Malaysia ensures that the brass-making industry does not fade away. It also monitors the production of brass items so that they are in line with the current demand and trends. Previously, brass items were regarded as decorative items, prone to rust. But research has widened the usage of such items. "They are not just for display in homes. Through the 'coating' technique applied during the making process, brass products can now be turned into decorative items in the garden too," Khairul Hafizi said, stating that this increases the value of brass items, and the income of brass makers. COMPETITION However, brass items produced in Terengganu are facing competition from similar products from Thailand, which are being offered at cheaper prices. How can one differentiate between Terengganu and Thai brass items? "Brass items from Terengganu are whitish-yellow in colour, as they contain white copper. As for brass products from Thailand, they are considerably lighter and more golden," he said. Khairul Hafizi said that even though Thai brass items are cheaper, brass lovers prefer the items from Terengganu, due to their superior quality. A YOUNG BRASS MAKER For an industry that is considered old and ageing, the presence of a young brass maker, Mohd Shaharil Harun, who is 31 years old, makes heads turn. Mohd Shaharil became interested in brass making, while growing up. His father, Harun Ahmad, used to create brass items and Mohd Shaharil would watch him with interest. This informal exposure prompted Mohd Shaharil to venture into the industry, after taking the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination (Malaysian Certificate of Education). He believes that a career in brass-making is lucrative. "I am fortunate to inherit and learn the brass-making techniques and skills from my father. For those who are new in this field, please do not shy away as continuous training will only sharpen your skills. "For those who are doubtful of the industry’s potential, get rid of your doubts, as Terengganu’s brass making industry has great value. If it didn’t, I would have gone into another field," said Mohd Shaharil. -- BERNAMA