WHAT started as a small business in Selangor refurbishing second-hand traditional instruments has grown beyond Malaysian borders.
Optimising a popular online shopping platform, musician and music teacher Mohd Zulhafiz Jamaludin managed to take traditional Malay instruments such as the rebana beyond his state and internationally.
The founder of Sutra Nurani Enterprise in Selayang told Bernama that the rebana was often used at Malay weddings and celebrations as well as public gatherings.
“Previously, it was really hard to source the rebana, so I am proud to have played a part in ensuring people can still access it,” he said.
In its early years, the business focused on refurbishing and selling used instruments.
But driven by a passion for the rebana, Mohd Zulhafiz started crafting his own version combining high-quality wood with faux leather instead of animal hide, which resulted in improved durability.
However, low foot traffic, declining interest among the younger generation and the Covid 19-pandemic resulted in weak sales.
This prompted Mohd Zulhafiz to shift his business online and it proved to be a turning point, increasing his shop’s visibility with sales doubling in just two months.
To date, the company has sold over 68,000 products to customers across Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak, as well as Singapore.
Mohd Zulhafiz is proud that he has been able to introduce the traditional Malay musical instrument to a wider audience via his online presence.
