Kelarai Bunga Melur & Tapak Cicak
by Roki a/l Ahmad, Sugi a/l Bah Singin, Bah Singin a/l Datok
Infused with both olfactory and visual allure, this weaving pattern draws its inspiration from the aromatic bunga melur (jasmine flower), a bloom celebrated across Borneo for its delicate fragrance and timeless beauty. In this work, the essence of the bunga melur is carefully translated into intricate threads and motifs, allowing the viewer to experience its presence not only visually but imaginatively, as if its scent lingers softly in the air.
The pattern echoes the elegance of the traditional kelarai, where craftsmanship meets cultural symbolism, and is thoughtfully complemented by the tapak cicak (lizard’s palm) motif. The subtle shapes of tapak cicak mirror the delicate curves of jasmine petals, creating a visual dialogue that harmonizes the two elements while emphasizing the interconnection between flora and traditional artistry.
Through the careful pairing of these motifs, the piece invites viewers to engage in a multisensory journey, where sight and imagined scent converge to evoke a profound appreciation for nature and the skilled hands that translate it into art. Beyond its decorative appeal, the weaving tells a story of balance, harmony, and the intimate relationship between the natural world and human creativity, demonstrating how traditional motifs can be reinterpreted to engage both the senses and the imagination.
About the Community
The Semai are one of the largest Orang Asli groups in Peninsular Malaysia, primarily residing in the central and northern parts of the Peninsular highlands, including Perak and Pahang. Traditionally forest dwellers, they are renowned for their deep knowledge of the rainforest, its plants, rivers, and wildlife, which has sustained their communities for generations.
Semai society is characterized by strong communal values, non-violent conflict resolution, and egalitarian decision-making. They maintain close-knit villages where cooperation and mutual support are central to daily life. Agriculture, hunting, gathering, and traditional craft-making remain integral to their cultural practices, alongside rich oral traditions, music, and ritual celebrations that reflect a deep connection to nature and ancestral heritage.
Despite modern pressures, the Semai continue to preserve their language, traditions, and ecological knowledge, contributing to Malaysia’s rich Indigenous heritage while navigating contemporary society.
About the Artists
This group of artists hails from Kampung Kenderong, Ulu Jelai, Lipis, Pahang, and represents the rich cultural heritage of the Semai community. At the heart of the craft is Roki a/l Ahmad, a skilled weaver whose work reflects generations of traditional knowledge, transforming locally sourced natural materials into intricate and functional creations that carry the aesthetic and spiritual values of the Semai people.
Supporting the creative process are the harvesters Sugi a/l Bah Singin and Bah Singin a/l Datok, who gather the natural fibers and materials essential to weaving. Their intimate knowledge of the forest and sustainable harvesting practices ensures that the materials are ethically sourced while preserving the surrounding environment.
Together, this collaborative team embodies the Semai ethos of community, harmony with nature, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Their artistry is not only a testament to skill and creativity but also a living celebration of Semai cultural identity, sustaining traditions and sharing them with wider audiences.