06/10/2025

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MONDAY | OCT 6, 2025

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

Classic bunga telur gets fresh touch with sarong fabric KOTA BHARU: From the humble sarong – once a symbol of Malay women’s grace – comes a handcrafted revival of the bunga telur , the traditional Malay wedding favour now enjoying a comeback in modern ceremonies with its timeless charm. Behind each delicately folded petal is homemaker Anis Aiza Shaari, 33, who transforms pieces of sarong cloth into works of art that embody heritage, creativity and quiet perseverance. The fusion of classic tradition and contemporary design has made her sarong-themed bunga telur highly sought after, with orders pouring in from bridal couples seeking a nostalgic yet elegant touch. A Universiti Malaysia Kelantan business graduate, Anis Aiza began crafting the wedding favours two years ago to supplement her household income. “The idea came when my sister-in law, Aima Najwa Abdul Rahim, 26, wanted a classic-themed bunga telur for her wedding in July 2023. When we couldn’t find anything that matched her vision, I decided to make them myself,” she told Bernama at her home in Kampung Wakaf Stan. The mother of four had no formal training and relied entirely on TikTok tutorials to learn the craft. “At the time, most bunga telur were made from songket. I wanted something different – sarong fabric is softer and feels closer to our heritage. The result is more classic and soulful,” she said. Each piece requires patience and precision, as every strip of fabric is individually cut, glued and arranged to achieve a neat, balanced finish. “The first step is building the base frame. Then, the sarong is cut into floral shapes like lilies, daisies or peonies. Each pattern gives a different character, making every bloom unique,” she explained. – Bernama

Keeping heritage alive in ever-changing landscape

KUALA LUMPUR: From the historic lanes of George Town to the bustling heart of Petaling Street, Malaysia’s cultural pulse beats strong this week as the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry steps up efforts to celebrate and preserve the nation’s living heritage. In Penang, the ministry, through the Culture and Arts Department, is hosting the sixth edition of the Living Arts Cultural Festival 2025 (LACF 2025) – a vibrant showcase of Malaysia’s endangered traditions and performing arts. Held in collaboration with the Penang state government and National Pancha Seniloka Association, the three-day festival along Armenian Street which ends today blends centuries-old artistry with a modern creative spirit. Department director-general Mohd Amran Mohd Haris said the festival features over 27 traditional performances, including endangered art forms such as

o From traditional dances Mak Yong to Mayin Jo’oh , the Living Arts Festival and renewed focus on Petaling Street are part of broader push to safeguard traditions and boost tourism appeal: Minister

There are also digital dialogues and workshops held in partnership with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation. Mohd Amran said the festival aims to turn audiences into active inheritors and promoters of the arts through interactive demonstrations and community engagement, bringing heritage closer to society and inspiring the next generation to cherish Malaysia’s artistic legacy. The event attracted between 30,000 and 40,000 visitors, including international tourists. Meanwhile, in Kuala Lumpur, the ministry is reaffirming its commitment to preserving another cultural landmark – Petaling Street – while enhancing its global appeal as a must-visit destination. Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said balancing the street’s traditional charm with improved tourism standards is crucial to sustaining its legacy. “In recent years, Petaling Street has faced real challenges, from the livelihood pressures of local traders to the need for better cleanliness, order and visitor experience. “The key lies in preserving its traditional identity while elevating the overall tourism experience,” he said in his speech during the Mid-Autumn Lantern Parade 2025, delivered on his behalf by press secretary Ross Sia Wan Teng. He said Petaling Street represents the living memory of Malaysia’s early pioneers and remains one of the nation’s most recognisable cultural gateways. Tiong added that the ministry welcomes collaboration between local authorities, traders and community associations to rejuvenate Petaling Street into a clean, safe and vibrant destination.

Makyung , Mayin Jo’oh and Sinding Mansayau , alongside cultural showcases from 10 countries including Malaysia, Bulgaria, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan and South Korea. The festival was officially opened by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, with ministry secretary general Datuk Shaharudin Abu Sohot and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in attendance. Mohd Amran said George Town was selected as the venue for its Unesco World Heritage status and

Armenian Street’s reputation as a vibrant hub for arts and tourism. The biennial festival’s theme, “Sustainability of Cultural Heritage”, focuses on safeguarding intangible heritage recognised by Unesco and national heritage lists, as well as endangered traditional arts in need of urgent revival, Bernama reported. Besides cultural performances, other highlights include parades, craft exhibitions, lantern displays and a Malaysian breakfast featuring Unesco-recognised dishes.

Petaling Street continues to draw crowds with its mix of traditional charm and modern vibrancy. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

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