Giving the Orang Asli a New Forms of Art Expression
Upskilling Workshop for Indigenous Wood Sculptors
The Pyrography Workshop for the Orang Asli Mahmeri tribe, sponsored by the Australian High Commission Malaysia, Klinik Lela Ratos & Rakan-Rakan, and Satay Putera, is part of the ongoing upskilling program organized by Yayasan Kesenian Orang Asli.
The event saw the presence of the Australian High Commissioner, Dr. Justin Lee, Yayasan Kesenian Orang Asli Chairman, Dr. Andre Ratos, JAKOA regional officer, Mohammad Nor Bin Yakuub, and 10 indigenous Mahmeri wood sculptors.
During his speech, the Australian High Commissioner, Dr. Justin Lee, surprised everyone by fluently speaking in the Indonesian language. It was revealed that his last post 10 years ago was in Indonesia, focusing on Environmental Development, during which he lived in a remote tribal village.
Dr. Andre Ratos emphasized the significance of preserving culture, which shapes individuals, and art serves as an expression of that culture. The culture of the indigenous not only expresses their individuality but also enables them to exercise self-determination in alignment with their roots.
The trainer, Raymond Koh, conducted a half-day course covering the basics of pyrography and equipment, followed by modules on outlines and shading. The event had full attendance from Orang Asli wood sculptor participants, including both senior and junior sculptors who showed a high level of interest in the wood burning technique. Towards the end, the primary focus shifted to the development of design motifs using the pyrography technique.