The Star: Six Selangor craftsmen selected for first Tukang project

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TOURISM Selangor’s first craftsmanship project called “Tukang” has shortlisted six applicants.

Under the project, each winner will receive a grant of RM10,000 to create products and artworks that will be exhibited at Galeri Shah Alam in November.

Tourism Selangor first called for participants to submit their product proposals in May.

A total of 37 local artisans with varied experiences sent in their proposals.

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The winning proposals are “Sustainable Innovation Batik Alternative Tool”, “A Piece of Kampung”, “Tepak Ulam”, “Mok Pod”, “T.I.K.A.R” (Transformation, Innovation, Conservation, and Appreciation Design) and “RE:VISION”.

“Tepak Ulam” proposer Hanisah Nordin from Warenakita group said local food inspired her artwork.

“I found that food is the glue for Malaysians culturally as we all have pride in our colourful dishes,” she said.

“Prior to this venture, I studied architecture but it was not a path I wanted to pursue.

“Instead, I applied my architectural skill to my artwork,” added Hanisah.

State tourism, environment, green technology and Orang Asli affairs committee chairman Hee Loy Sian presented certificates to the six winners.

“Handicraft symbolises the country’s rich and diversified cultural heritage.

“The gross domestic product (GDP) of the Malaysian creative industry has increased, reaching RM29.4bil and contributing 1.9% to the total GDP,” he said.

“Tukang” curator Suzy Sulaiman said Selangor was home to most of Malaysia’s designers, artists and other creative talents.

“Through seed funding, we hope to kickstart our Selangor creative scene.

“Recognition for Selangor is not limited to the food and beautiful location but also in terms of creative and talented people,” she added.

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