Technology and Production Process of Malay Traditional Heritage Pottery in Malaysia

Abstract

Malaysia is one of the countries known with works of art especially the invaluable handicraft. The earliest creation of works of art crafted by human in this country existed since prehistoric age. Discovery of artifacts such as potsherds, weapons, ornaments and cooking utensils was a proof that human at that time had begun producing pots from clay, involved in handworks, carving and boat making. This discovery was an indication that the earlier human inhabitants were closely related to environment, and they can create utilitarian items using their creative thinking, technology and material from nature. One of Malay heritage crafts produced using technology is pottery. There are 3 types of pottery namely Mambong, Labu Tanah (clay pitcher) and Terenang. The first pottery showing form which stresses the predisposition of clay material and hand forming technique in producing pottery for cooking and mostly produced in Mambong, Kelantan. The second pottery was inspired by a gourd or pumpkin and developed to various forms of clay pitchers produced in Sayong and Pulau Tiga, Perak. The third pottery on the other hand was similar to metal form such as Terenang from Tembeling, Pahang. To ensure the survival of art heritage, various technologies were used in the production. The question is, what technology being used to achieve the objective? To get the answer, the researcher used qualitative descriptive research method which involved written data collection or visual data collection such as interview and observation. The result of the research showed that technology is indeed the root to the survival of those potteries. This can be seen through 4 major manufacturing aspect; Firstly the preparation of clay using human strength and plunger machine. Secondly, pottery forming using hands and moulds. The third aspect is the decoration techniques using various tools. Last but not least is the firing technology using kiln and firing in open trenches. It is hoped that this research will explain that Malay pottery heritage of Malaysia had gone through invaluable process of technology. It is indirectly saying that no matter what technology being used, it is none other than for the everlasting identity of  Malay heritage.