Handicrafts are More than Just Knick-knacks
By Alexander Fernandez, Lim Sok Swan
February 2020 FEATURE
AS AN ENTREPOT, Penang has known all manners of trade; these have ranged from dealings in textile and paper to wood, glass and metal. Often, these raw materials have been reimagined into beautiful apparel and decorative items of superior value such as dresses, shoes, belts, purses; and objects fashioned by local blacksmiths and carpenters. The uniqueness of individual handicrafts is now threatened by mass production exacerbated by technological growth spurts. The handicraft industry was a thriving value-added service for Penang’s...
Alexander Fernandez
is a budding plant enthusiast, feline fanatic, Netflix junkie and gaming buff. He hopes to one day travel to Japan.
Lim Sok Swan
is currently focusing on heritage studies. She believes that more understanding among different groups and cultures can make Malaysia a better home for all.
