Art of Kelarai in Malay Architecture

Abstract

Kelarai is defined as checkered woven patterns and craftwork passed down from generation to generation in Malay culture and people in Southeast Asia. Kelarai can be used in a wide range of products, from daily products like mats and food covers to decorative elements like walls and windows of traditional architecture. People today can still recognize the art of kelarai on everyday products. However, only a few have seen or even know about the use of kelarai in traditional architecture. With only a few kelarai craftsmen and evidence of kelarai architecture left, the art of kelarai wall is also at risk of vanishing. Therefore, this study aims to document the functions of kelarai in traditional architecture, the methods of making kelarai from kelarai artisans, and to identify the techniques used in kelarai walls of traditional architecture. An interview and participatory observation are conducted with kelarai craftsman to collect data. Site visits to the location of case studies and visual documentation and analysis through an internet search are conducted to acquire information regarding the remaining evidence of kelarai architecture. The data are analyzed, and the most common motifs used for kelarai architecture are identified. Due to a lack of written documentation and awareness, the study is significant in the diminishing kelarai architecture area. The study will also contribute to the urgency to save the remaining kelarai architecture that is gradually deteriorating and waiting to be demolished.