Photo: Bernama
JOHOR BAHRU: A Johor-born craft entrepreneur who specialises in crafting detailed replicas of traditional houses, is dedicated to exposing the younger generation to Malaysia’s rich architectural heritage by sharing his expertise on social media.
Mohd Amin Afuan, 58, creates replicas of various traditional houses, including Malay traditional houses such as Rumah Johor Limas, Rumah Terengganu, Rumah Minangkabau and original Felda settler houses, as he generously shares his knowledge and passion for these architectural wonders through his social media account
He believes it is essential, particularly for the younger generation, to be introduced to the art of handmade replicas, which not only showcase their unique charm but can also serve as a potential source of income.
"I want the current generation, especially the youth, to experience the beauty and distinctiveness of traditional house architecture, much of which they may have never encountered before,” he said.
"By sharing videos on TikTok, I hope to inspire and guide those interested in learning this craft,” he added, speaking to Bernama at the Johor Craft Festival and the 2024 Kota Selatan Festival at Angsana Johor Bahru on Saturday (Dec 28).
A former Perodua salesman, with over 15 years of experience, he shared that his passion for traditional house architecture led him to explore the craft of replica making, a journey that has now spanned a year. He explained that he is able to create bespoke house replicas tailored to the specific desires of his customers.
This newfound venture was also inspired by the foundational skills in craftsmanship he acquired, through the industrial arts stream during his school years.
"Alhamdulillah, with the talent bestowed upon me by Allah and the knowledge I gained, what began as a mere curiosity and effort has evolved into something more profound and successful," said the father of five.
"What started with simple, basic house designs has now progressed to more intricate and detailed replicas.
Mohd Amin explained that the time required to complete each handmade replica, crafted entirely without machine tools, typically ranges from three to four months. Most of the wood used in his creations is sourced from Indonesian forests.
"Each replica is meticulously handcrafted using knives and saws, and since no machine tools are used, the process is time-consuming," he said, adding that the time needed for breaks and brainstorming new ideas means that even crafting intricate details like the latticework can take an entire day.
"In addition, the art of creating replicas has garnered its own dedicated following. Those familiar with this craft understand the value of the replicas, with some pieces reaching tens of thousands of ringgit,” he said.
He also has the remarkable ability to produce replicas simply by examining pictures, without the need for sketches or computer-generated designs.
"I’m not skilled in sketching or using computers, so I rely on pictures to understand the shape and structure of the house,” he explained. "For the height, width, and overall area, I use precise calculations and logic.”
Mohd Amin, who hails from Felda Pasir Raja, Kulai, hopes to inspire a greater appreciation for the art of replica making. He dreams of a future where every Malay household has a replica of their traditional home, to evoke cherished memories of village life.
Those interested in placing an order can reach him at 019-714 8357, or connect via TikTok @warisanklasikamin or Facebook, Warisan Klasik Amin. – Bernama
