Shifting consumer preferences pushing centuries-old skills into oblivion
MALACCA: The Peranakan heritage, intricate beadwork and Nyonya culture continue to draw tourists and locals alike but artisans say the traditions behind the city’s celebrated identity are slowly disappearing.
Tham Siew Inn Artist Gallery co-founder Tham Ze King, said young Malaysians are increasingly disconnected from traditional art, often viewing them as decorative objects rather than carriers of cultural knowledge.
“Personal taste needs to be shaped and refined, just like any other sense. To delve deeply into aesthetic appreciation may have become a luxury that many cannot afford these days. Individuals walk in and find our creations overwhelming or feel completely disconnected.
“However, international visitors appreciate and support what we create, as they are better educated in art. Not everyone needs to be an artist or traditional craftsman, but appreciating the effort, creativity and culture behind artworks is a rewarding experience in itself.”
He also said sustaining interest through workshops or internships has become increasingly difficult due to limited resources, emphasising that traditional artisans need stronger cultural and educational support to remain relevant.
“Art and craft should not be seen only as decoration or tourist products, but also as knowledge, labour and cultural memory. Exposure to art, history and aesthetic appreciation should not be treated as something optional or elitist.
“When (the public) understand why things are made in a certain way and the time and effort involved, appreciation comes more naturally.”
As craftsmen age without apprentices, heritage practitioners say centuries-old skills are at risk of being lost.
Jonker Colour Beads and Nyonya Shoes Shop director Joyce S.P. How said preserving bead and shoemaking traditions have become a race against time, as fewer youngsters are willing to invest years in mastering the craft.
“Although there is demand for handcrafted items, finding someone willing to dedicate the time and patience to continue the work has been a constant challenge.
“I tried to pass on the skills to the young generation, but many of them are impatient and do not stay long enough to fully learn the craft.
“Honestly, it takes years of practice to master the techniques, and most youth today are looking for faster results.”
Jonker Street shop owner Jenny Lim, who runs the Funky Munky gallery, said shifting consumer preferences towards modern designs have pushed heritage crafts further into the background.
“Individuals today prefer new and modern items because they are fashionable, not necessarily because they appreciate tradition, which makes it harder for handmade and artisan products to stand out in shops that sell both modern and traditional goods.”
She added that preserving Malacca’s artisan culture requires deliberate efforts to tell the stories behind the crafts, rather than treating them as mere retail products.
“Even in shops that carry a mix of products, highlighting the story and labour of handcrafted pieces could help keep traditions alive,” she said, adding that awareness is crucial to sustaining heritage trades.
The Sun Malaysia
