RM0.00

No products in the cart.

RM0.00

No products in the cart.

Auntie Tham and Her Terompah, Kampung Jawa, Melaka

Wooden clogs, known as terompah in Malay, hold a significant place in Malaysian culture. These traditional wooden shoes were common items in many households during the 1970s. The process of making terompah involves woodcutting, nailing, and painting. Despite their practicality, clogs face challenges due to competition from modern shoes.

Clogs can be worn by both men and women. Straight-sided clogs are meant for men, while those with inward-curving sides are for women. They are particularly useful for wet surfaces, such as when washing clothes, working in kitchens, or using bathrooms.

Recently, we revisited a small wooden shop tucked away in an alley of Kampung Jawa in Melaka. It was easy to spot this shop. First, because it was uniquely small. Second, because the door was blue. Third, you could see the finished terompah hung in the middle of the shop.

Meet Auntie Tham Fong Ling, 64, who inherited the shop from her father, also a clog maker. According to Auntie Tham, the shop is almost 100 years old. Using traditional tools like wooden mallets and iron hammers, she is one of the few remaining clog makers in Malaysia, still in business but struggling to keep going as demand drops.

Despite this, Auntie Tham is determined to continue making clogs for as long as she can. Most orders, she said, come from souvenir sellers and individuals. Traditionally, Chinese people often wore these wooden sandals for walks, while Malays used them in mosques and prayer halls. However, they are not well known among the younger generation today.

This was our third or fourth visit to Auntie Tham’s shop. Our first visit was in November 2022. For those interested in visiting, the shop is located near Restoran Line Clear Kg Jawa. While you’re there, you can explore the area further! So many interesting places are within walking distance.

Drop by Kafe Tuju for their Padang Bowl, and then head to Sin See Tai (新时代) and The Curious Bakers for their delicious coffees and donuts. Thank you for reading. More pictures on Facebook and Instagram.

Batik Sarung Velvet Yellow (Noor Arfa)

This luxurious Velvet FcMicro fabric comes in a soft pastel Yellow and features an exclusive floral pattern. Measuring 2 meters by 45 inches, it is perfect for making elegant skirts, stylish blouses, traditional kurung attire, and beautiful dresses. Made in Terengganu by Noor Arfa, a brand well-known for its high-quality batiks in Malaysia since 1980. Care Instructions: Hand wash or machine wash in a cloth bag; do not bleach or soak.
RM37.00

Batik Sarung Cotton Galaxy Blue (Noor Arfa)

This luxurious 100% cotton fabric comes in a classic Galaxy Blue colour and features an exclusive floral pattern. Measuring 2 metres by 45 inches, it is perfect for making elegant skirts, stylish blouses, traditional kurung attire, and beautiful dresses. Made in Terengganu by Noor Arfa, a brand well-known for its high-quality batiks in Malaysia since 1980. Care instructions: Hand wash or machine wash in a cloth bag; do not bleach or soak.
RM59.00

Flat Rattan Serving Tray - Big

The tray's versatile design makes it an excellent addition to any home decor, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry. When not in use, its flat profile allows for easy and convenient storage. Add a touch of sophistication to your serving experience with our Flat Rattan Serving Tray. Order yours today and enjoy the perfect blend of style and functionality.
RM48.00

Batu Seremban

A traditional game that generations of Malaysians have enjoyed. Batu Seremban. Made from soft and durable materials, our Batu Seremban set includes five small, colourful beanbag-like stones that are perfect for tossing and catching.
RM6.50

Batik Scrunchie - Corak Tiga

Take a piece of art wherever you go. Batik Scrunchie by yours truly. Traditional design with modern practicality. Durable, high-quality materials. Perfect for daily use. Carry art with tangankraf.
RM15.00

Oval Rattan Basket - Big

Easy to transport, with comfortable handles for a secure grip, and the spacious interior of each basket provides ample room for storage. Order yours today and bring the timeless appeal of this beloved market basket set to your home.
RM70.00

Batik Sarung Velvet Sage Green (Noor Arfa)

This luxurious Velvet FcMicro fabric comes in a soft pastel Sage Green and features an exclusive floral pattern. Measuring 2 meters by 45 inches, it is perfect for making elegant skirts, stylish blouses, traditional kurung attire, and beautiful dresses. Made in Terengganu by Noor Arfa, a brand well-known for its high-quality batiks in Malaysia since 1980. Care Instructions: Hand wash or machine wash in a cloth bag; do not bleach or soak.
RM37.00

Oval Rattan Basket - Small

Easy to transport, with comfortable handles for a secure grip, and the spacious interior of each basket provides ample room for storage. Order yours today and bring the timeless appeal of this beloved market basket set to your home.
RM50.00

Shop

This is it. Your search for iconic handicrafts of Malaysia starts here.

Blog

Documenting places we visited and what we learned from such visits.

Sell with us

We're always looking for talented artisans to collaborate with.

Let's talk

How can we help? Let's get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.

error: Content is protected.