Revitalising KL’s golden triangle with the arts
Bingka’s designs take everyday Malaysian culture and elevate it into home décor products and accessories, making them one-of-a-kind pieces that are uniquely handmade locally.
SUSTAINABILITY is more than just our environment, one can also invest in our multiethnic culture and heritage by means of supporting our local artisans and craftsmen (or craftswomen).
We can look at our neighbours like Asakusa in Tokyo, Japan and Souk Siam in Thailand, which have been recognised as cultural capitals and great landmarks for globetrotters.
We too have much culture to share with the world but there’s never really been a one-stop hub per se for tourists and locals looking for authentic local products.
With that, EcoWorld aims to celebrate our local artisans and craftsmen this year with its #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign through the Malaysia Grand Bazaar (MGB) at Bukit Bintang City Centre.
MGB itself is part of the Pudu area regeneration efforts to reuse brownfield land and is directly connected to Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport for a curated experience of Malaysia’s rich culture, heritage and street food.
Two local brands, who now have a presence at MGB, are reinvigorating our uniquely Malaysian heritage by pouring their artistry and creativity into their works.
Bingka KL: A modern yet retro take
When looking to create new designs, Adrihana and the team look at subtle yet aesthetically pleasing ways to incorporate Malaysia in their merch.
Starting out in December 2015 with wholly original silkscreen-printed designs, founder Adrihana Abdul Rashid and co-founder Emmalyn Yam have a vision to make Malaysian culture an affordable and contemporary part of our everyday lives.
“When we go overseas and think about what to get our friends abroad, we realise Malaysia doesn’t have that many souvenir options. There’s only so many batik shirts you can give someone after all,” Adrihana jests.
“We thought of using silk-screen printing because it was the most practical way to start printing your own design immediately.
“We had initially tried making our fashion line but it was too demanding having to create fast-paced seasonal wear so we decided to delve into souvenir items,” she says.
“I was on my honeymoon in Japan when I saw these cute tea towels and how the designs were influenced by the local culture. It was an epiphany – we decided to make tea towels our first product.”
Bingka’s merchandise come in all shapes and sizes nowadays with tote bags, pouches, pillowcases and even their own stationery.
“We get our inspiration from everywhere and anywhere. It’s mostly our local heritage and traditional culture, from our food to our architecture. Our designs are a reflection of our personalities.
“Malaysia has an abundance of local talent and artists but they may not have the platform to transform their art into something part of daily life, which is where places like MGB can help empower local talent.
“We made Bingka to be a ‘bridge’ between heritage and our contemporary lifestyle,” says Adrihana.
Just Mar’s: Celebrating individuality
Aside from Penan-woven bags, Just Mar’s also has a collection of batik bags for everyday use.
Marhaini Mustaffa and her daughter Marisa first started their artistic adventure in 2013.
However, after the passing of her daughter in 2015, Marhaini wrote an autobiography named Caring for Marisa and it was only in 2017 that Marhaini decided to continue with Just Mar’s to keep the memory of Marisa alive.
Just Mar’s started off with shawls and expanded to batik and Penan bags and baskets made by the Sarawakian Penan tribe.
“I would consider myself a late bloomer. For me, starting the business was a rallying cry for housewives and women to know they always have the opportunity to start their own business or learn new things to be independent,” says Marhaini.
“I’m a one woman show. So having platforms like MGB’s Karya – where my products are displayed – help smaller artisans who don’t know where to start since their team is willing to work and accommodate the lesser-known, smaller players.”
As Malaysia turns 65 this year, we’re reminded of traditions and heritage that have taken a backseat in our modern lives.
“The misconception now is that you can only get good pricey batik wear for special occasions when it should be something we wear every day like our Indonesian neighbours.
“Batik is part of our identity and individuality – it’s a way of keeping our heritage and culture alive. The beauty of batik (and Penan bags) is that all the designs are unique and no one item is the same because they’re all handmade.
“I found that Malaysians are more than willing to support local businesses, we just need more awareness and education to instil the love for our traditional arts,” she adds.
Show your support this Merdeka month for local artisans and invest your time or money in some of the best and unique creations in various categories such as clothing, arts and crafts items, jewellery and accessories, home decor and local snacks at MGB.
