Malaysian miniature shipbuilder 'Capt Jack' specialises in ancient vessels

Azhar is happy he made the entrepreneurial leap to pursue his passion, as it has enabled the crafter to focus on a job that brings him happiness. Photos: KL Chong

Azhar Kamaruddin, 57, has carved a reputation for himself as one of the few miniature shipbuilders in the country. In the last 25 years, the passionate woodworker has crafted 60 scale models of classic ships, including British warships, sampans, carracks, junk ships, and clippers.

His replicas range in size – from the smaller ones that measure about 12 inches (30.5cm) to ships that are about five feet (1.5m) in length.