MENGKUANG or screwpine mat weaving used to be a leisurely pastime of womenfolk in east coast states.
Though the mats, once a must-have in Malay homes, have been replaced with synthetic floor mats or colourful carpets over the years, many still appreciate the fine craftsmanship.
This has spurred Munah Othman of Kampung Baru Selama Estet in Bandar Baharu, Kedah, to keep this dying art alive.
Munah, 60, said she could produce between 10 and 15 mats of various sizes in a month, with the prices ranging from RM65 to RM180 a piece.
“Initially, I made them for my own use but when visitors came over and saw the beautiful handicraft in my house, they became interested and started placing orders, ” she said.
While the entire weaving process is undertaken by Munah alone, her husband Abdul Khalid Man, 70, helps her look for screwpine leaves in the forest.
“We will usually be out as early as 8.30am and it takes about two to three hours to cut off the leaves.
“They have sharp thorns running along both edges, so it is normal to accidentally cut our fingers when stripping the thorns off with a knife, ” said Munah.
“We do have screwpine plants growing around our house but they are not sufficient, ” she said, explaining that about 120 mengkuang stems were required to produce two mats.
Her weaving skill was passed down to her from her mother and the income earned helped the couple provide for their 10 children, with the youngest now aged 24.
“Weaving mengkuang mats is time-consuming and requires patience.
“This is because as the day wears on, the leaves harden, making it difficult to have them intertwined.
“However, I enjoy what I am doing and weaving is my passion, ” said Munah.
She expressed willingness to teach young people who are interested in learning this traditional craft.
Bandar Baharu assemblyman Datuk Norsabrina Mohd Noor said to her knowledge, Munah was the only person in the district still actively pursuing this traditional art.
She said Munah’s mengkuang products had the potential to be commercialised and she would assist Munah to expand her business and move forward.
Norsabrina added that the handicraft skill could be introduced to youths interested in producing and selling mengkuang mats as a source of income.
On Feb 1, the assemblyman shared on Facebook her visit to Munah’s house where she witnessed the mengkuang mat weaving process.
Norsabrina noted that Munah’s mats came only in the mengkuang leaf’s natural colour, so she introduced Munah to a supplier who helped the artisan produce more colourful and attractive mats. — Bernama
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
