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Art
Scene
Get Crafty with the
Aboriginal Malaysians
Rowena Jo Fernandez
finds the hidden gems of traditional Malaysian crafts in thework
of ourMalaysian aborigines.
T
oday’s
world is changing
and traditional forms
of arts and crafts are
getting lost among the
ever changing pace that
follows in the footsteps
of technology. If craft to
you, is still what it used to be, then you
definitely want to be a part of Gerai Orang
Asli (aboriginal stall). Run by a diverse
group of vivacious volunteers, Gerai OA
is a nomadic booth that travels from one
event to another showcasing traditional
native crafts, painstakingly handmade by
the indigenous people.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of
bazaars and fairs, Gerai OA finds its
place in rent-free spaces, where the
beautiful crafts are laid out for all to see.
As I popped by the stall, it occurred to me
that Gerai OA is more than just a stall, but
an experience itself. Not only did I leave
with beautifully crafted items that were
unique and truly one-of-its-kind, I also
left with a small acquaintance with the
friendly aboriginal people of our country
as well. I was left grinning from ear to ear,
itching to spread the word about Gerai
OA to everyone I knew. A short stopover
at this stall and I learnt a little about the
aboriginals, a little about traditional crafts
and a few words in their fading language
that they so patiently taught me.
At Gerai OA you can browse through
I m a g e s :
R e i t a R a h i m
Siti Jah Het: The tanghok maker
Patricia Lun Bawang ... ceramic bead maker