Kelarai Dada Burung & Rotan
by Roki a/l Ahmad, Sugi a/l Bah Singin, Bah Singin a/l Datok
Woven with threads of ecological richness, this kelarai pattern pays homage to the Semai people, whose lives unfold in close relationship with the lush forests that surround their settlements. These flourishing landscapes—alive with layered canopies, rippling streams, and a mosaic of plant species—provide the Semai not only with sustenance, but also the raw materials that shape their artistic and cultural expressions. Among the most treasured of these materials is rattan, a versatile forest resource with more than twenty known varieties thriving in their region. Each type of rattan carries its own texture, strength, and hue, embodying the extraordinary biodiversity that defines the Semai homelands.
The intricacies of this weaving marvel mirror the complexity of the forest itself. Every intersection, curve, and repeated motif echoes the interwoven branches, vines, and roots that bind the forest ecosystem together. The kelarai becomes a visual ode to the forest’s manifold textures—smooth bark, rugged stems, glistening leaves, and earthy tones—capturing the subtle rhythms and colors of nature in a single woven surface.
More than an aesthetic achievement, the piece embodies the Semai’s deep knowledge of and respect for their environment. In each strand, the kelarai unfolds a narrative of harmonious coexistence, reflecting sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations. It stands as a testament to how the Semai live not apart from the forest, but as part of it, nurturing a relationship grounded in balance, gratitude, and stewardship. Through this weaving, viewers are invited to witness the profound connection between people, craft, and the living tapestry of the local forests that continue to sustain and inspire the Semai community.
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.