Aunullah Zakwan crafting leather goods in Wakaf Bharu, Tumpat.— Photos: Bernama
Eight years ago, Aunullah Zakwan Mohamed was a trader selling various imported men’s accessories at Bazar Tok Guru in Kota Baru, Kelantan.
However, the life of the 34-year-old from Wakaf Bharu, Tumpat, took a 180-degree turn when he fell in love with handmade leather goods.
And thanks to guidance from a friend who had long been in the leather business, the Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) Industrial Chemical Technology graduate’s boldness has proven worthwhile.
Aunullah Zakwan is now an active handmade leather goods trader in Kelantan, under the Wau Leather Craft label.
“While selling men’s accessories such as bags and belts, customers were asking about genuine leather goods, and I saw that there was a demand for handmade products.
“In 2016, I apprenticed with a friend who had been producing and owning his own handmade leather goods store for a long time.
“Since then, this business has become my main source of income,” he told Bernama when met in Wakaf Bharu.
Some of his customisable accessories such as wallets, belts and women’s handbags. — Photos: Bernama
Starting with just producing his own lighter pouch, Aunullah Zakwan is now capable of crafting a variety of leather goods such as wallets, knife sheaths, belts, key chains, sling bags and women’s handbags, using buffalo leather.
He said there was satisfaction in finishing the handcrafted products and delivering them to his customers.
“For example, a wallet takes about two days to complete.
“Despite taking a long time, it is enjoyable,” he said.
Aunullah Zakwan’s leather goods are priced from RM20 for a lighter pouch up to RM700 for a woman’s handbag.
“Additionally, customers can request custom-made products based on their preferences, such as adding extra compartments to a wallet,” he said.
