14/09/2025

ON SUNDAY September 14, 2025 theSunday Special IV Supporting local artisans

BY HANNEF ESQUANDER

I T is reassuring to see more people embracing sustainable living by resisting the lure of fast fashion and mass-produced goods. Instead, many are choosing to shop local and support small businesses. Buying local is not only good for the environment, but it also strengthens our economy and uplifts artisans who dedicate their lives to craft. When we choose local products, we re duce transportation distances, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions and lower air pollution. Most items are produced in small batches with sustainable packaging, which helps reduce waste and lower the environmental impact. Why does this matter? Quite simply, because our planet is struggling and every small action counts. Supporting local businesses is a step toward a cleaner environment and a stronger community

for future generations. And it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Even students on tight EXGJHWV FDQ PDNH D GL̆ HUHQFH Weekend markets, such as Riuh, Art for Grabs and Central Market, are great SODFHV WR VWDUW 7KH\ R̆ HU D ZLGH UDQJH of products, from beaded accessories to KDQG GUDZQ SRVWFDUGV RIWHQ DW D̆ RUGDEOH prices. For example, an art print from Furlala Creations costs just RM4 to RM9, making it a thoughtful gift for a friend or a cheerful addition to your desk. Social media is another easy way to discover hidden gems. Search hashtags like #sapotlokal, #madeinmalaysia, or #supportlocalmy to find artisans and micro-businesses selling directly to buy ers. Whether it’s sending a message, clicking a website link or making a small SXUFKDVH \RXU VXSSRUW PDNHV D GL̆ HU ence.

Hand-beaded custom bag from Moonbow

Supporting local doesn’t mean spend ing hundreds of ringgit. Even a candle from CandleLab+Co, a beaded phone holder from Naked Beads or a sticker set from Furlala Creations counts. Once you’re familiar with a brand, you can always explore more, perhaps even com missioning Moonbow KL for a custom bag or Artsy Daphy for a personalised wall piece. Many artisans also host beginner friendly workshops, often at spaces like GMBB or Central Market. You could try batik painting with Ainna Artwork or craft SDSHU ÀRZHUV ZLWK 0D\ /LQJ &KHQ IURP Petals by You. Workshops are usually affordable, conducted in small groups and you get to bring home your creation, making them both fun and meaningful gifts. Buying directly from makers also stretches your ringgit further compared to concept or consignment stores. Beyond saving money, you gain the opportunity to talk to artisans about their process and hear the story behind each handmade piece. Supporting artisans doesn’t always require a purchase. Promoting their work on social media, recommending them to friends or giving a shout-out to new talents can go a long way. Many art school JUDGXDWHV DQG VWDUW XSV R̆ HU LQWURGXFWRU\ prices and by supporting them early, you PLJKW MXVW RZQ WKH ¿UVW ZRUNV RI WRPRU row’s established creators.

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Supporting local artisans does not have to be expensive or complicated. It can be as simple as choosing handmade over factory-made or sharing the name of a talented maker with a friend. These small choices add up, helping the environ ment while strengthening our creative community.

Phone charm from The Naked Beads