UNINESS – Page 7 – Together we unfold Malaysian local cultures.

New Kwong Weng Watch Shop

Opposite the mini stadium in Renggam, Johor, there is a row of antique single-storey wooden shops, New Kwong Weng watch shop inconspicuously situated among them for almost nine decades. As its light blue metal shutters slowly open, various grandfather clocks, mantel clocks, and wall clocks come into sight, the regular rhythm of ticking clocks bringing peace to the mind. This historic watch shop is the only place for traditional watch and clock repairs in Renggam, the 2nd generation successor master Chong Lin Kiam is hailed as “Clock and watch doctor” who rescues timepieces. Countless clocks and watches came back to life under his able hands, and there often are clients from Kuala Lumpur or even Singapore who send their collection of luxury watches for repair.

About 40 years ago, master Chong succeeded the shop established by his father in 1932, adding a “New” to the original shop name “Kwong Weng”. The senior Mr Chong used to be a farmer in China who lost his hard-earned savings during a locust disaster in the 1920’s, therefore he moved overseas to make a living in Johor Bahru. He learned the trade of repairing clocks and watches from his fellow hometowner who conducted him to Malaya, and moved to the rapidly developing Renggam by coincidence, setting up his own shop on the busy main street, in a row of the earliest buildings in Renggam town. The narrow space behind the shop which used to be a storeroom was turned into lodgings after being rented by the senior Mr Chong, who brought up several children with this mere trade.

In the earlier days, numerous estate managers and foreign business owners gathered at Renggam, having great demand for clocks and watches repair services, back then there were 2-3 watch shops in town including Kwong Weng. Despite the Japanese occupation of Malaya, the business of watch shops was not affected. The Japanese soldiers were honest and paid up promptly when they sent their watches for repair, only threatening the watch repairers with their weapons upon receiving poor service. Having cautiously operating for over two decades, the senior Mr Chong finally received a trade license from the British colonial government in 1955, as well as another zinc license plate from the Malaysia government in 1975, both well-maintained to date, as master Chong hung them in the shop in honour of his father’s hard work and toil in entrepreneuring.

Master Chong has been helping his father in the shop since teenage, gradually fathoming the mechanical principles of clocks and watches, subsequently inspiring an enthusiasm in repairing them. According to master Chong, beginners should start learning to repair alarm clocks which have larger parts, only switching to repairing watches after grasping the basics and becoming adept. Various tools available in the shop are heirlooms from his father, whereas the array of old spare parts were procured from outstation associates, as some of the watch shops conformed to the changing times to sell electronic watches therefore selling off obsolete mechanical parts. Even though electronic watches are trending, the unique charm of mechanical watches expand their value for collection, watch repairers who are savvy in mechanical principles and have exquisite craftsmanship are particularly sought after. Master Chong’s son also became a watch repairer under his influence, and is now working in the repair department of a luxury watch shop at Kuala Lumpur.

The process of disassembling, cleaning, repairing, and reassembling a luxury watch puts patience to test as well as time-consuming. Fortunately master Chong who has over 50 years of experience in watch repairing still has sharp eyesight and agile hands even though he is nearly 70 years old. Sitting in front of his workbench wearing a loupe, he steadily grips the tweezers, carefully arranging the petite parts on a small white tray, closely inspecting every single detail, striving to find out the exact problem to restore the watch’s functionality and accuracy. Among the luxury watches master Chong often repair are Rolex, Panerai, Omega, Longines etc. Their structures are complex and delicate, the original mechanisms might be accidentally fragmented. Therefore he often purchased European watch magazines to study their technical innovations as well as polish his own skills.

Helmed by two generations, its craftsmanship passing down to the third, New Kwong Weng watch shop stood witness to the changes in watchmaking technology over the years. Quality is upheld by dedication in reviving the heartbeat of mechanical clocks and watches. Watch repair skill is a timeless legacy, allowing mechanical devices to continue measuring time step by step.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Drone : Daniel Lim
Video Editor : Amelia Lim
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : Just Stay

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

The Story of Renggam

Upon stepping into Renggam, Johor, a river flows right across the middle of the town, cool breezes sweep over lush greenery on both sides of the riverbank, imparting vitality to the quiet town. Vehicles occasionally whiz pass the clean and spacious roads, residents leading a casual and relaxed pace of life. Rows of shophouses built in the 1930’s stand neatly on the properly planned streets, retaining their original appearance despite being weather-beaten, depicting the rich cultural history of the town.

Surrounded by estates, Renggam seems to be an inconspicuous small town, its former glory barely imaginable. Since development in 1879, Renggam became the British colonial government’s administration centre within Kluang, well-equipped with facilities such as fire station, police station, and courts way before other suburbs. When the west coast railway line operated by the Federated Malay States Railways was fully opened in 1913, one of the stations was situated in Renggam.

Legend has it that the name Renggam came from the Malay word “renggang”, meaning break apart, due to a mountain in Johor being blown apart by the colossal Indonesian Krakatau volcano eruptions. Under the Kangchu system, pioneers migrated from Hainan, China to cultivate gambir and coffee in Renggam. At the beginning of the 20th century, rapid industrial development induced an upsurge in global demand for rubber. Due to Malaya’s natural advantages in rubber cultivation, the British colonial government encouraged British capitalists to grow the rubber production industry, Chinese estate smallholders also acknowledged the trend and converted to rubber planting. As Renggam prospered, Chinese forefathers established community groups such as hometown guild halls and trade associations for mutual assistance. To date, there are at least five active guild halls in Renggam, organizing activities from time to time to promote interaction between members and local residents.

On an elevated land near Renggam township, a leisure club built entirely of solid wood remained in existence. Back then, this was where British expatriates came to party on weekends. Local villagers relished an anecdote where the British Queen once visited this club during a trip to Renggam. As British expatriates left after Malaya gained independence, a Chinese smallholder bought the club and opened it up for the public. At present, the club’s interior is well-maintained, however its adjacent tennis court ceased to exist. Residents gather here during their free time to play mahjong or billiards, getting along in harmony regardless of race.

Both Chinese pioneers and British expatriates each brought their religion into Renggam. The goddess Mazu is worshipped at the magnificent century-old Tian Hou Gong temple. Situated one kilometre away at the pinnacle of Renggam, is Our Lady of Fatima chapel built by the British, immaculately overlooking the small town for six decades. The chapel hosts two annual celebrations, which is Feast Day in mid-May and Christmas in December. Although these two religions emerged separately, they share the core belief of mutual care. This is probably where the honest and simple lifestyle of Renggam folks originated.

Chinese forefathers who settled down in Renggam were concerned about the education of future generations, hence schooling became a necessity. SJK (C) Chin Chiang in Renggam has been established for nearly a century, with as many as 800 students at its prime between the 1960’s to 70’s. However as global rubber prices dropped steeply after the 70’s, several estate owners replanted palm trees, and younger generations moved to the city in search of jobs, leaving mostly old folks behind. Facing the dilemma of declining student numbers, SJK (C) Chin Chiang officially became a micro primary school since last year, with less than 60 current students.

Having experienced a giant wave of development, the pace of life in Renggam subdued along with the lull of the rubber industry, becoming a quaint little town free from bustle. Deviated from expansions such as tertiary education, industrial parks, and highways, life in Renggam is pleasant and carefree.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Drone : Daniel Lim
Video Editor : Michael Lerk
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : Dyathon – Memories from YouTube

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

Attap Roof Weaving

Originating from Kuala Kubu Bharu dam, the 110-kilometres-long and winding Selangor River flows through Kuala Selangor into the sea. Under the blazing sun, on the riverpath along Kampung Kuantan in Kuala Selangor, Uncle Jamaluddin bin Zakaria could be seen paddling a small sampan against the tides, slowly approaching the stifling mangrove forests, starting his day’s gathering job.

Two types of palm tree leaves are usually gathered by Uncle Jamal: Daun Nipah and Daun Sagu/Rumbia. Nipah leaves, also known as Attap leaves, are gathered from Nipah trees which grow in humid swamps, measuring 2-3 inches in width and a few feet in length. Also from the palm family, Sagu trees grow on the shores, with tall tree trunks and narrower but thicker leaves. These two types of leaves are local roofing materials gathered by Malay forefathers. Having good air permeability as well as dispelling heat, attap roofs are suitable for the equatorial climate, commonly used within Malaysian communities.

Upon arriving at his destination, Uncle Jamal ties his boat onto the wooden stump, taking out his parang knife for mandatory sharpening. Having been induced by his parents to this traditional trade since a tender age, Uncle Jamal has decades of experience in gathering, obvious from his adept actions in cutting down sheaths of leaves. Firstly, he stands two pieces of stem vertically to mark the collection point (Celung in Malay). Then, he separates the leaves piece by piece from both sides of the sheath. As the leaves pile up, he peels a fine strand of fibre from the sheath to make a natural rope, to tie up the heap. These skills are mastered and inherited by Uncle Jamal’s family for several generations, demonstrating ancient wisdom in utilizing natural resources.

Uncle Jamal then carries the pile of leaves to unload onto his sampan, and makes his way back with the receding river tides. On the other hand, 65-year-old Aunty Zainab binti Daud sits underneath the tree shades in front of her house, surrounded by Attap leaves and ropes, her nimble finger movements showcasing decades of weaving skills. Aunty Nab arranges and folds Attap leaves neatly onto a thin and long bamboo stick with her left hand, while threading a rope through the two layers of leaves with her right hand. Moments later, a piece of shelterable Attap roof is born under her deft hands.

Since childhood, Aunty Nab followed in her parents’ footsteps, being in charge of both gathering and weaving Attap leaves during her youth, hence she is proficient in the whole process of this traditional folk skill. In the olden days, forefathers ripped Bemban trees sheaths into fine strands to be used as ropes in weaving Attap roofs. As more forest grounds were developed, at present Bemban trees are almost extinct, being replaced by bamboo ropes or plastic ropes. Now that Aunty Nab is getting old in retirement, she still weaves Attap roofs in her free time as a side income. The majority of her life is interwoven with Attap leaves into a brilliant tapestry.

Similar to a giant-sized comb, the woven Attap roof requires one to two weeks of sun-drying. Neatly layered onto the roof beam, a canopy combining both natural and artistic elements is built. Although Attap roofs are durable and appealing, they require regular maintenance, as well as major replacement every few years. Therefore, sturdy and practical materials such as zinc and tiles gradually replaced Attap roofs. However, the lack of air permeability led to a stuffy interior. In this light, Attap roofs still have their unique attractivity, being constantly in demand. Recently trending homestays and themed restaurants employ Attap roof designs to create a sense of rural nostalgia, enabling tourists and customers to experience rustic culture, as well as embrace Mother Nature. Attap roofs are once again in the limelight.

Attap and Sago leaves used to be commonly found in the forests, alas they are increasingly hard to find in recent years, Uncle Jamal needs to travel far away to collect sufficient leaves to cater for orders placed. The development of forest grounds directly impacted the natural growth of plants, and he is forced to enter even more secluded areas to gather. Back to the shores of Kampung Kuantan, there still are 3 to 4 Aunties skilled in weaving Attap roofs who are all over 60 years old, yet persist in weaving 50 to 60 pieces of Attap roofs daily. Perhaps some years later, this centuries-old skill will fade away.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

Nipah Encephalitis Investigating Team : Professor Dato’ Dr Tan Chong Tin

20 years ago, a virus outbreak destroyed the hard work of several generations in Bukit Pelanduk, reaping the lives of over 100 swine farmers and their families within three short months. The government then declared curfews and evacuated villagers from the stricken region, taking swift actions to contain the epidemic. Professor Dato’ Dr Tan Chong Tin led an investigating team from University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) to scrutinize and analyze the afflicted. Later on, the virus was proven to be a new type of mutating virus which mainly infects the lungs and brain of patients, previously misdiagnosed as Japanese Encephalitis (JE), therefore it was named Nipah Virus after the place where the first case originated.

In early 1999 during the rapid spread of Nipah virus, more than 100 patients from Bukit Pelanduk and Kampung Baru Sungai Nipah who seemed to suffer from acute encephalitis were hospitalized at UMMC. During clinical treatment, as a neurologist Dr Tan found out that the disease transmission was different from JE, hence he directed the medical team to perform an in-depth study. There is no overnight success in the research field, after 2-3 weeks of observation, the medical team finally shed some light on the new virus. Working under tremendous pressure, the medical team carried out various tests during the intense virus outbreak, attempting to find out effective treatment and prevention methods. Frontline medical personnel also had to bear the risks and fears of being in contact with patients, in the face of unprecedented and unknown virus, it was immensely stressful to be doing extensive first-hand research.

Newly discovered worldwide, there was no prior reference for Nipah virus. Its etiology, symptoms, transmission, hazards, and treatment were inconceivable. Under Dr Tan’s guidance, the UMMC investigating team made a ground-breaking revelation that the Nipah virus derived from livestock —— SARS coronavirus in bats. Due to cross-species mutation, the virus easily defeats the human body’s immune system, infections occur with rapid onset, finally spreading among humans.

The UMMC investigating team did a comprehensive study on Nipah virus, the results of their research benefited countries such as Bangladesh and India where Nipah virus outbreaks happened. As a tool to assist in diagnosis, they could then accurately administer medicine and take precautionary measures. This investigating team led by Dr Tan won the Mahathir Science Award in 2006, as well as the Merdeka Award for Health, Science, and Technology in 2008, accomplishing prestigious honours. Since the outbreak till having gained recognition, Dr Tan and team did not cease their efforts in research. Apart from returning to the village to check on villagers who recovered from the epidemic, they also contributed and joined in research in other afflicted countries.

A few months ago, Dr Tan and doctors from his medical team attended <Nipah Virus 20th Anniversary Review and Sharing Session with Experts> held last year, recounting past incidents and disclosing follow-up research to increase public awareness and understanding of the virus. In the same year, Dr Tan received the title of Emeritus Professor from University Malaya and the 6th Tan Kah Kee Award, also the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Malaysian Society of Neurosciences in 2017. Dr Tan’s contributions in medical and cultural fields are acknowledged, concurrently he is active in promoting the rich culture and history of the local Chinese community.

At present, the Covid-19 pandemic accelerates and spreads widely, with confirmed cases across all continents globally, severely affecting our daily lives and even the world’s economy. In today’s globalization and high population mobility, not only does it escalate the infection rate of the virus, it also largely increases the difficulty of prevention.

Only with enhanced personal alertness and hygiene practice, ruling out unverified news among the flood of information, ensuring accurate intelligence is obtained from official or authoritative channels. Besides, gain basic understanding of the virus to avoid believing in alarmist talk and eliminate unnecessary worries. Dr Tan also reminds that apart from getting treatment, attention and aid must be given to both physical and psychological health of the patients’ family members. Together we weather the storm through mutual support and encouragement.

【Official and Authoritative Information Channels】
Ministry of Health of Malaysia
Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia
官网：http://www.moh.gov.my/
Twitter：https://twitter.com/KKMPutrajaya
Facebook：https://www.facebook.com/kementeriankesihatanmalaysia/

World Health Organization（WHO）
English：https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Chinese：https://www.who.int/zh/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Drone : Daniel Lim
Video Editor : Evon Pang
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : Sean Beeson

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

Tian Fu Gong Temple in Kuala Selangor

Kuala Selangor, founding place of the Selangor Sultanate, used to be the British colonial government’s administration centre in the late 19th century, and a district officer (DO) was appointed to assist the Sultan in handling state affairs. The DO once got into a railway accident, luckily a black-faced person pulled him out of the train to escape unscathed. Afterwards, he passed by a small temple at the foot of Bukit Melawati and noticed that his saviour was the deity worshipped. As a token of appreciation towards this deity, after discussion with the temple committee, the DO personally granted a freehold land for the temple, exempt from taxes, announced via press statement on 19th March 1897. The temple committee then managed Tian Fu Gong’s construction, completed in 1898 at its current address.

The British colonial government brought in swarms of Chinese labourers from Hokkien to mine iron in Kuala Selangor, hence their beliefs spread. The three main deities worshipped in Tian Fu Gong are MāZǔ, Lord GuǎngZé, and Zhāng Gōng Shèng Jūn, tracing back to Hokkien folk beliefs. Zhāng Gōng Shèng Jūn, who is also known as ‘Huat Choo Gong’ or ‘Tua Hock Gong’, has a black face, messy hair, and holds a sword in protection. The ‘Tua Hock Gong’ statue in Tian Fu Gong was brought from Hokkien to Kuala Selangor by senior Mr Tee Bee Siew; whereas the sworn brothers of Zhāng Gōng Shèng Jūn, ‘Dji Hock Gong’ Siau Gong and ‘Sa Hock Gong’ Ang Gong, were worshipped at Batang Berjuntai and Sekinchan respectively.

In the early 20th century, educational resources were scarce, the Tian Fu Gong committee organised classes at the vacant temple grounds, where local intellectuals taught nearby children Three Character Classics and the Analects of Confucius. As the number of students increased, the temple compound became inadequate. With tremendous support from the local neighbourhood, SJK (C) Aik Thee moved out of Tian Fu Gong into its current address, which lies 800 metres away, housing 300 pupils. Acclaimed Malaysian patriarch Tan Sri Yeoh Tiong Lay used to study at SJK (C) Aik Thee during his childhood, his wife Puan Sri Tan Kai Yong once held a teaching post there too. Food stalls filled the freed up temple grounds, however along with a few rebuilds, in 2018 the grounds were renovated into a Chinese Zodiac Garden.

The current temple committee president Uncle Tee Lai Thian’s family has intricate bonds with Tian Fu Gong, having held posts in the temple committee since his great-grandfather’s generation. Back in the 50’s, his father was president. After his father passed away in 1987, his uncle succeeded the position, until he took over in 2005. Tian Fu Gong organises three annual festivals, namely MāZǔ’s birthday in the third month of the lunar calendar, Huat Choo Gong’s birthday in the seventh month of the lunar calendar, as well as donations to the elderly and needy during Chinese New Year, initiated since the temple’s 100th anniversary celebration in 1990. Huat Choo Gong’s birthday is the grandest celebration, with 100 brilliantly coloured joss sticks standing in front of the temple, the stage outside the temple showing lively opera over 6 consecutive days, and the parade during the actual day attracting thousands of people.

Besides celebrations, Tian Fu Gong also offers regular services for devotees, such as medium services on the 1st and 15th each lunar month. The current medium, Mr Ng Kit Siong, is 80 years old, fulfilling his duty at Tian Fu Gong for over 30 years. He is very kind and willing to help devotees during non-service days or even at night. Be it praying for safety, curing diseases, choosing auspicious date and time, or consecrating deity statues, Huat Choo Gong is responsive and effective, drawing devotees from near and far to visit. Nonagenarian Ong Sa Mui continually prays at Tian Fu Gong for over 50 years, even when her legs are weak and requiring aid from her son, she mutters sincere prayers while lighting incense. Being blessed by the deity, some devotees volunteer at the temple in return. Aunty Foo Kim Hiok volunteers regularly at the temples of Huat Choo Gong and his sworn brothers, riding the bus from Sekinchan to Kuala Selangor, notwithstanding the toil and exertion for over 20 years.

Tian Fu Gong is famous in the coastal area, with the prominent Huat Choo Gong who saves people from harm. Before the 20th century, Kuala Selangor was the only commercial port in mid-Malaysia, popular with locals and overseas businessmen, Tian Fu Gong is located beside the busy street, witnessing prosperity together. To date, the prosperous street died down into two rows of shabby shophouses, whereas Tian Fu Gong still flourishes with an abundance of devotees.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Drone : Daniel Lim
Video Editor : Michael Lerk
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : Dyathon – Rose from YouTube

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

Cockles in Pasir Penambang

Cockles are indispensable in mouthwatering dishes like sour and spicy assam laksa, rich and redolent curry mee, as well as aromatic and delicious char kuey teow. Its tender flesh has the glowing scarlet of blood, tasty to eat whether simply being boiled or stir-fried in spicy sauce. However, cockle farming is an industry with high risk levels and dependent on ecological environment. Pasir Penambang, a century-old Chinese fishing village located at the western part of Selangor, was famous for cockle farming in the 1990’s, also renowned for its abundance of fresh seafood and marine products.

Pasir Penambang has natural advantages in soil characteristics, with muddy seabanks along the coast, brackish water which is a mixture of freshwater and seawater, as well as plentiful planktonic organisms for cockles to feed on, therefore an ideal breeding ground for juvenile cockles. In addition, diligent care by breeders helped ensure high survival rates as well as plumpness, the breeding scale and output is preceded only by “the capital of cockles” Kuala Sepetang in Perak. In contrast to Kuala Sepetang which mainly exports outstation and overseas, the cockles of Pasir Penambang only cater for local wet markets.

Having started out as a fisherman since 9 years old, then turned to cockle farming in 1989, Mr Kok Chong Beng (transliteration) is an authority figure in blood cockle farming techniques around Pasir Penambang and even within West Malaysia. Ten years after his retirement, Mr Kok still talks excitedly about blood cockles while sharing his experience in managing breeding sites throughout the years. From juvenile to adult, it takes 14 to 18 months for cockles to mature, in the meantime periodical checks are performed on their growth status, as well as dispersing clustered cockles.

The insightful Mr Kok acknowledged that in order to be profitable, the survival rates of cockles should be at a minimum of 30%. A fruitful harvest combining quantity and quality ensures impressive profitability. The pinnacle of Pasir Penambang cockle yield was 1995 with an annual supply of 40,000 tonnes, yet steeply declined to around 3,000 tonnes in 2015. Back in the glorious 90’s there were dozens of family-run cockle farms in Pasir Penambang, now only a handful remain.

In recent years, marine pollution such as plastic waste and chemical contamination caused severe harm to the survival of cockles, huge amounts of mud and debris from sea-based construction are washed into breeding sites causing cockles to die from suffocation. Climate changes also raise risks faced in cockle farming, for instance the tsunami which occurred towards the end of 2004 not only brought upon stormy waves but also seabed displacement and erosion, inducing mortality rates of cockles. Moreover, natural cockle spawn are getting increasingly difficult to come across, breeders are forced to import cockle spawn from neighbouring countries, resulting in mortality events due to inability to acclimatize hence unfortunate loss of capital.

As rising breeding costs induced soaring market price of blood cockles, profiteering occurred through illegal fishing and smuggling, dealing yet another heavy blow to cockle breeders. Suffering from dwindling supplies and severe losses, several cockle breeders across Malaysia chose to switch career paths or close down. Mr Low Kock Seong who continued to strive despite facing various challenges, had to do everything on his own in order to reduce operation costs. Being 42 years old, he is already the youngest cockle breeder in Pasir Penambang.

Once illustrious, cockle farming in Pasir Penambang met with inescapable complications, how would cockle breeders cope with unpredictable possibilities and threats? Dubious whether they could or not prevail, as cockles become increasingly rare, the future of the cockle farming industry is like a candle flickering in the wind, glimmering with uncertainty.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Drone : Daniel Lim
Video Editor : Michael Lerk
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : For A Moment from YouTube

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

Sang Lee Ironsmith

In the row of shops on the main street of Simpang Renggam, two ancient wooden shophouses stood out among numerous cement shophouses. Within the wooden shophouse on the left, charcoal ash could be seen floating in the air, alongside with the raucous ringing of hammering iron and sparks flying. Sometimes the ironsmith Mr Lee Sek Seng could be heard playing the erhu or singing folk songs. This is Sang Lee Ironsmith, ran by master Lee with about 60 years of experience, forging sharp and durable knives for the townspeople, as well as playing melodious music on the erhu. His shop name implies prosperity from making iron knives with unrivalled sharpness therefore being the king of shops, such is his expectations when setting up shop. The rustic original interior and furnishings are well maintained over the decades, the mottled plank walls bearing witness to master Lee’s toil in life.

The smithing process is tedious, involving hammering the iron into shape in front of a forge blazing at high temperatures, therefore the prerequisite of being an ironsmith is good physical strength. 75-year-old master Lee is as fit as a fiddle, conversing in a lively manner, playing the erhu or singing during his free time to relieve stress. Master Lee is born in China, following in his father’s footsteps to make a living at Malaysia in 1958, picking up the trade of ironsmithing together with his elder brother. After serving eight years of apprenticeship, he set up his own shop when he was 25 years old, having market foresight to settle down in Simpang Renggam where the fast-growing local agricultural sector brought upon demands for iron tools.

Common tools which master Lee forged include palm harvesting sickles and curved rubber tapping knives. Coincidental with the advance of pineapple plantation in Simpang Renggam, he tailor-made three types of special tools to suit workers’ requirements —— long knives for slashing the tapered pineapple tree leaves, short knives for harvesting pineapples, and bullet-shaped digging tools for planting pineapple shoots. According to the workers’ description and requirements, master Lee manufactured lightweight and suitable tools so that they could perform their duties with ease. These special tools attracted workers from neighbouring regions such as Pekan Nanas who purposely came to purchase.

Music is an inseparable part of master Lee’s life, be it erhu or singing, he never gave up pursuing his interests. He learnt the basics of erhu from his father, and actively joined the Chinese orchestra organized by Simpang Renggam Welfare and Sports Association. Even though the orchestra inevitably disbanded due to constant loss of members, master Lee keep on practicing. Concurrently he is one of the founders of the Simpang Renggam Song Club. Passionate about singing, he sings Hakka folk songs inspired by those sang by hometown neighbours during his childhood. Being without opportunity to receive professional guidance, he attempts his own adaptations, showing his passion.

Mastery in ironsmithing and music is not gained overnight, but through experience acquired over the years. Master Lee’s attitude towards life is full of enthusiasm and patience, consistently learning and improving himself. The clang of hammer striking iron, sentimental erhu melodies, and canorous folk songs harmonize together in the symphony of master Lee’s life.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Video Editor : Evon Pang
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : Moondrops

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

Aw Pottery

Driving along Federal Route 1, the oldest highway in Peninsular Malaysia, while passing by Machap, an eye-catching colourful castle-like building stands at the roadside. Both its interior and exterior are ornamented with vibrant ceramic pieces arranged in floral designs, a gorgeous restroom offering convenience to travellers passing by on their long journeys. Established 70 years ago, Aw Pottery Studio occupies about an acre, ceramic products are sighted everywhere, in the garden, restroom, workshop, till the showroom, the entire site is full of artsy feel.

Mr Albert Aw is one of Aw Pottery Studio’s current proprietors, his father the late Mr Aw Eng Kwang being the founder. Born in a family of potters, the late Mr Aw mastered the family trade as well as the architecture of wood-fired kilns from a young age. As he migrated southwards from TeoChew to Malaya during World War II in search of a living wage, he chose to settle down in Machap which has rich clay soil. Utilizing the abundant natural resources and his own skills, he built a pottery kingdom alongside the spectacular restroom with brightly-hued ceramics.

The range of colours projected on ceramic pieces are not from the clay itself, but a vitreous substance applied on the surface of unburnt earthenware. The glaze is made up of various minerals mixed together at a certain ratio, and then brushed onto the semi-completed ceramic ware. After the kiln firing process, the glaze will be fused onto the ceramic. Glazing is crucial in adding colour as well as increasing density in order for the ceramic to be more durable and attractive. On the other hand, unglazed ceramics such as flowerpots are porous, allowing water and air movement through the sides of the pot. Initially, the glaze was made from wood or rice bran ashes, nowadays powdered feldspar, limestone or granite are used with the addition of chemicals to lower their melting point. The mixture of different minerals result in different colours after chemical reactions during kiln firing.

In coincidence with the rubber industry spurt in Peninsular Malaya back in 1949-50, Aw Pottery Studio started out manufacturing ceramic latex cups. Ever since, the pottery studio developed into supplying multi-coloured ceramic ware to restaurants and hotels. At its prime between 1960-70, Aw Pottery Studio employed up to 200 employees, working together in an orderly manner. Having the upper hand, the late Mr Aw exported ceramic ware overseas, at the same time gradually shifting the main production line into China due to considerations in environment and other factors. Furthermore, the entire family emigrated to the United States in the 80’s.

Apart from his commitment in advancing the pottery industry, the late Mr Aw was also a talented sculptor, having joined and organized exhibitions in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. His artworks are being exhibited in museums, among them his masterpiece, the bust of Tunku Abdul Rahman. In remembrance of the late Mr Aw, his daughter Miss Aw Lee Lang set up a museum in the studio grounds to showcase his remaining sculpture works, including a replica of his masterpiece.

At present the Machap studio is still in operation, however business is not as good as before, and even facing staff shortage, only a handful of senior staff remain on duty. A few years ago, Mr Albert’s youngest sister Miss Aw Lee Lang returned to Malaysia to restore and rebrand Aw Pottery Studio, promoting ceramic works as well as offering opportunities for the general public to experience hands-on pottery lessons where they may bring their handicraft home.

From utensils to artworks, Aw Pottery Studio’s journey of transformation depicts the innovative spirit across two generations in their pursuit of living culture and beauty. Through making pottery, one may slow down their hectic lifestyle to relax, finding pleasure in creating pretty and functional ceramic ware using their own hands. Succeeding their late father’s passion in pottery, the second generation of the Aw family revived Aw Pottery Studio to restore its former glory.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

Fang Hui Coffee Shop

Peninsular Plantation Pineapple Estate at Simpang Renggam was pioneered in 1954, by philanthropist Tan Sri Lee Kong Chian under Lee Rubber Co (Pte) Ltd (formerly known as Nam Aik), cultivating up to 400,000 pineapple plants on over 6,000 acres of land. Pineapple planting was among the main source of income for the population in the area, during the 60’s economic boom, hundreds of plantation workers were being employed, not only local villagers but also labourers brought in from neighbouring regions. At the crack of dawn, as workers make their way to work via the narrow mud road, they inhale rich coffee scent wafting from Fang Hui Coffee Shop located within the plantation.

Being the largest scaled pineapple estate of the nation, the owner of Peninsular Plantation took efforts to make sure that workers from outstation could live at ease in this remote land, hence allocating part of the plantation land for building hostels, a school, temples, and shops, shaping a small yet complete neighbourhood. With their welfare being well taken care of, most workers are willing to settle down and secure work in the plantation while living in a helpful and harmonious community.

Among the two rows of old shops in Peninsular Plantation, Fang Hui Coffee Shop has been in operation since the pioneering of the pineapple estate, managed by two generations of the Wong family for over half a century, without being sold. The shop name “Fang Hui” literally means coffee aroma wafting throughout the plantation. 61-year-old Wong Swee Wan is the second-generation heir, who grew up and spent the better part of his life in the coffee shop operated by his father, from being a student to getting married and having children, he relied on inherited coffee-making skills and the shop in raising his four children.

The smooth and rich Hainanese coffee is made using pure white coffee beans specially roasted by Uncle Wong’s friend, processed without the addition of condiments such as butter or sugar. The homemade kaya sandwiched between crispy charcoal-toasted bread is personally cooked with care by Uncle Wong on his weekly day off, promising the best taste and quality. Regular customers could order takeaway coffees in metal tins instead of common plastic bags, which is an amusing sight. Apart from that, Uncle Wong also sells fresh fruits such as pineapples and guavas in his coffee shop.

Unlike most coffee shops in town, Fang Hui is situated within the plantation, not likely to be passed by unless going in or out of the pineapple estate. Initially the coffee shop catered for staff to have tea during their break time, familiar plantation supervisors show up daily regardless of the weather. Now that there are fewer Chinese workers and more foreign workers, other shops either close down or sell-off, however the coffee shop operation is not affected. To date, Fang Hui retains its simple and traditional style and features, for instance the original signboard with 60 years of history, as well as rarely seen classical heavy wooden plank shutters which Uncle Wong and his wife need to cooperate to move them aside one-by-one during opening, then place them back during closing.

Take a seat in the classical shop front, take a sip of the Hainanese coffee made by Uncle Wong, savour not only the rich aroma but also the unique sensation of life in the plantation.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen

有你 UNI Production
Producer : Mok Yii Chek
Coordinator : Daniel Lim
Cinematographer : Amelia Lim / Evon Pang
Drone : Daniel Lim
Video Editor : Michael Lerk
Production Assistant : Michael Lerk
Music : Happy Memories from FeltMusic

COPYRIGHTS 2020 ECHINOIDEA SDN BHD

Yuen Choon Rattan

Utilising raw materials available locally, amid semi-completed and woven rattan products, long, thin rattan strips are neatly arranged on the floor. In the workspace, 80-year-old Grandma Lai Ah Moi attentively weaves rattan products using both hands and feet. Chop Yen Choon in Simpang Renggam, Johor, is the originator of the local rattan industry, operated by Grandma Lai and her husband Mr Chua for decades while raising their children. The old Mr Chua passed away 3 years ago, his son Chua Boon Ho succeeded the rattan workshop, while large and complex items are crafted by an Indonesian lead worker with more than a decade of experience.

In the 1950’s, pineapple planting was initiated in Simpang Renggam, thus derivative industries blossomed, such as pineapple processing manufacturers, iron smiths, and rattan weaving. Due to strong demand of rattan baskets during harvest in the pineapple plantations, the local rattan industry developed rapidly. From hand-carried baskets in the earlier days to baskets being worn on the back nowadays, pineapple plantation owners order thousands of rattan baskets annually, being a long-term regular customer of Chop Yen Choon. The rattan industry in Simpang Renggam flourished in the 70’s to 80’s, woven rattan products were being widely used in all sorts of trades. For instance, the extensive usage of rattan dustpans besides being a daily necessity, breeders can use it to scoop chicken droppings, while construction site workers can use it to scoop sand and soil. Since rattan products were greatly sought after, local housewives weave rattan products during their free time for side income. Even though plastic products then gained popularity and gradually replaced rattan products, customers still prefer the better flexibility of rattan dustpans.

Grandma Lai and her husband took over the rattan workshop from their brother-in-law 40 years ago, she was also a rubber tapper therefore she weaved rattan in the afternoon upon returning home. Without receiving any proper training, she took apart rattan products woven by others in order to research and gain insight on how to weave, putting in painstaking attempts to acquire this self-taught skill. Initiating a business is always challenging, when Grandma Lai first started selling rattan products, she went door-to-door convincing others to purchase her rattan dustpans at RM1.50 and rattan baskets at RM6. The amount of efforts she put in were greater than revenue, it was difficult to make ends meet, however she did not ever think of giving up. She continued to strive, working hard together with her husband. Their business improved, employing dozens of workers during its peak.

Under the influence of his parents, Chua Boon Ho mastered the basics of the rattan industry from childhood. Afterwards, with familial support, Boon Ho and his brothers went outstation during their youth on a journey of learning and broadening horizons, venturing into different industries or even starting their own businesses. Thanks to the stable operation of their parents’ rattan workshop, the Chua siblings have sufficient time and space for progress beyond, therefore Boon Ho truly appreciated the solid endeavors of his parents. Due to their advancing age, Boon Ho decided to return and take up the family business. Demands for traditional rattan products dropped over changing times, declining business volume and lack of staff are among the dilemmas which Boon Ho overcame. In honour of relationships over decades since the previous generation, Boon Ho did not implement drastic price increments, he simply maintains breakeven without causing financial burdens to his clients. Being brought up by weaving and selling rattan products, the affection of familial bonds aspired Boon Ho to share and spread the precious experience and knowledge inherited from his parents, transforming rattan products from daily necessities into decorative items, so that younger generations still get to recognize and admire rattan products.

In the historical trail of Simpang Renggam’s development, pineapple plantation and the rattan industry are closely interwoven into magnificence showered by laboring sweat. Sweet remembrance of his late father entwined like rattan vines, Boon Ho thankfully gives back to his parents’ nurturing grace, persevering to sustain the family-run rattan workshop.

Text: Daniel Lim & Pua Hui Wen