Although The Datai Langkawi rainforest resort is famed for building its structures around its natural landscape, the resort’s design is also deeply influenced by its surrounding local cultural heritage. This is captured through its architecture, from its Malay vernacular framework down to the choices of its tiles. But The Datai Langkawi’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Malaysia’s rich cultural legacy extends beyond just its architecture.
Following the Hasanah Gold Threads Awards 2023, which aimed to honour Malaysia’s traditional textile craftsmanship and preserve its cultural heritage, Yayasan Hasanah—the organisation that inaugurated the initiative—partnered with The Datai Langkawi to spotlight regional artisans through the resort’s Artists-in-Residence programme.
Among the 18 winners, six were offered the opportunity to collaborate with the resort. At The Datai Langkawi’s beach club and atelier, these artisans are provided with a proper platform to showcase their creativity as they engage with guests, conduct demonstrations, and host interactive workshops. At the same time, guests at The Datai Langkawi are able to gain valuable insights into the local arts and crafts. The exchange allows both parties to share their experiences, discuss customer preferences, and explore the value and market dynamics of traditional craftsmanship.
At the beginning of the year, The Datai Langkawi welcomed Kenny Loh, an artisan who specialises in embroidery for Nyonya kebaya and beaded shoes. Loh described the experience as an “eye-opener” as he engaged with an international audience and gained new perspectives of his craft. In May, artisans Ong Wan Fen and Hasmah Yamin, representing Tanoti House, demonstrated techniques to supplementary weft using a wooden loom; and just last month, Muhammad Hilmi Muhammad Hafni showcased the art of tekat benang emas (gold thread embroidery), a traditional craft from Perak learned from his grandmother. Recently, Shah Nor Ramin Mohammad displayed his unique art of ikat samping and traditional tenun, combining the design and techniques of classic and modern woven fabrics to come up with intricate designs of his own.
As the programme continues to gain momentum, several artists have since entered into consignment agreements to offer their merchandise for purchase at the resort’s boutique. “Their efforts don’t just stop after the programme; we will continue to support their work at the boutique,” said Norhayanti Jamil, retail manager of The Datai Langkawi.
For the rest of the year, upcoming artisans to look forward to include Crisna binti Mojupi (7 to 13 September), who will feature pis embroidery, the rare craft of Rungus crafters, as well as Helmi bin Chek (3 to 10 October), who will showcase the drawing and stamping of the intricate batik fabric.
Lead image: Shah Nor Ramin Mohammad (left)
