Arts & Crafts ...
Malaysia has a wealth of traditional arts and crafts. Many villagers are skilled artisans, and they dedicate a great deal of time and effort towards creating these exquisite pieces. Handicrafts can be made of fabric, wood, bamboo and many more. They make excellent souvenirs.
In a homestay village, visitors not only watch but can also learn how the intricate Malaysian crafts are made. Various techniques are demonstrated and visitors are always encouraged to try their hand at creating their own souvenirs.
Batik
Malaysian batik is a world-renowned fabric. Batik is traditionally worn as sarongs by those staying in rural areas. With its attractive colours and beautiful designs, batik is making its presence felt on the international fashion scene. It is used by designers to create trendy apparels. Batik is also creatively used to make table mats, pareos, scarves and home decorative items. It is said that some of the best batik pieces still come from the cottage industries found in rural areas and kampongs. Visitors will have the chance to watch how the batik is made, using either hand-painted or block motifs and coloured using dye and wax.
Pandanus mat
Found in most Malaysian villages, the pandanus mat or tikar mengkuang occupies a central location in the home. It is usually placed in the living room or the dining area and it is where the family gets together for meals.
These beautifully woven mats are made from mengkuang leaves. The leaves are stripped of thorns and split into equal-sized stands. They are then soaked, dried and dyed before they are ready to be woven into various items, such as floor mates, table mats and even baskets. Try your hand a weaving them under the supervision of local experts. It is also a popular handcrafted souvenir to take back home.
Woodcarving
Homestays provide an ideal platform to watch how the local folk passionately turn a piece of wood into marvellous objets d’art. Malaysian wood crafts bear intricate motifs and beautiful designs. As a tropical country, Malaysia has long been a sources of wood crafts. In fact, most traditional Malay homes are built with hardwood and boast elaborate decorative panels and carvings. Woodcarvings can also be found on may objects, such as the handle of a keris (a Malay dagger), wall hangings, mirror frames and many more. Don’t miss a chance to watch how the master craftsmen create superb designs.
Beads
The states if Sabah and Sarawak have long been associated with products made of beads. In Sabah, the Rungus people are known for their distinct and elaborate beaded accessories, ranging from necklaces, earrings, belts and bangles. In Sarawak, beads make up an essential part of the locals’ heritage. Colourful and beautiful, the beads are highly popular as souvenir items.
During a stay in the homestay villages, visitors can learn how the local crafts are made, or even take home some of the remarkable craft items as mementoes of their holiday.
Pottery
Earthenware, pottery and ceramics are commonly found in the states of Perak and Sarawak. Perak is known for its labu sayong, a distinctly shaped clay vessel. It is traditionally used as a water receptacle. The water that has been stored in a labu sayong is said to be very cool and greatly refreshing. Some homestay villages in Perak offer a chance for visitors to watch how the labu sayong is made.
Sarawak pottery is known throughout the region. Boasting intricate designs and traditional craftsmanship, Sarawak pottery has a distinct and exotic look.
