Upcycled Shack founder and architect Tressie Yap says in many rural farming communities in Kota Marudu, corn husks are often treated as agricultural waste; and this contributes to environmental pollution.
Recognising the potential of this resource, she decided to empower homemakers in villages to repurpose corn husks into valuable products.
Design-wise, the products blend the people’s cultural heritage with modern techniques.
“The crafters’ corn husk flowers have been showcased at eco-events and exhibitions, earning recognition for their creativity and sustainability. Several artisans have also achieved success through this venture, and they now produce and sell crafts on their own.
“This project is more than just an income-generating initiative – it empowers women, reduces waste and raises awareness about sustainability. For Upcycled Shack, the CHC exemplifies how community-based efforts can transform waste into art, blending environmental stewardship, cultural preservation and economic empowerment into a powerful movement,” says Yap, 52.
Yap is no stranger to advocating sustainable causes. She has been educating many rural communities in Sabah on sustainable practices and how it can drive significant change.
“In architecture, sustainability informs every decision – from designing energy-efficient structures to using bamboo and upcycled materials. Similarly, sustainability in rural communities empowers people to manage their resources, reduce dependency and build a lasting legacy.
“Sustainability is more crucial than ever because the choices we make today determine the future of our planet, communities and quality of life. As an architect and sustainability advocate, I have witnessed how unsustainable practices deplete resources, harm ecosystems and endanger livelihoods. That is why I champion the 5R – refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle and rot.”
