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South East Asia is famed as a shopping Mecca, and Malaysia
is no exception. Throughout the country you'll find many excellent
markets and small 'factory' outlets where you can pick up
some great bargains and unusual souvenirs. Remember, it is
always worth bargaining in this part of the world for everything
you buy.
Batiks: origin and history
Perhaps the most authentic tribal crafts and batiks
are found in East Malaysia. The origins of batik remains somewhat
unclear, with a few early examples having been found in 1st
century Egyptian tomb, yet it is generally agreed that it
most likely originated in Asia. It certainly first became
prominent amongst Javanese ladies in the 13th century and
is now found in various forms across the globe. Batik is,
however, primarily associated with both Indonesia and Malaysia,
and forms part of the traditional Malay national dress for
both sexes.
Writing in wax designs
The word 'batik' means 'writing in wax' and has now become
a generic term for the art of wax painting on fabric. Bold
designs are painted on the material in hot wax, then dipped
in dye and left to cool and dry in the sun. This delicate
process is then repeated until the desired pattern and traditional
vibrant colours are achieved. Finally the wax is removed,
either through boiling or steaming the fabric, or by the more
modern method of ironing the material with a piece of paper
between iron and cloth. This latter method softens the wax,
which is then absorbed by the paper. The original whiteness
of the fabric shines through in beautiful patterns.
Buying batik today
Traditionally, batiks were often associated with a particular
tribal or ethnic group and had distinct patterns, but with
the influx of tourism there is now a glut of patterns to satisfy
designers, locals and tourists. Malaysian beaches are a riot
of colour, with batik sarongs dominating the scene, while
Malaysia fashion designer Eric Tho is famous for his
use of batik in designer shirts and dresses, sometimes covering
the whole garment, other times just a subtle embellishment
on hems or cuffs.
You'll also find batik designs now adorning items other than
clothes, including duvet covers, cushions, bags, purses, paintings,
tablecloths and so on. Traditional intricate patterns are
often abandoned in favour of more abstract scenes and tropical
images that have a broader appeal with Westerners.
Where to bag a bargain
Malaysian tour guides will often offer to take you to a small
local batik factory where you can witness the design process
- the idea being that the tour guide will get a commission
from the factory for providing them with a steady supply of
customers. You may pay slightly higher prices in this way
than if you were to visit these places independently, but
the difference is often minimal and it's an interesting experience.
Some places will even allow you to try your hand at creating
your own designs.
Kuching in Sarawak is the best place to buy
traditional designs of craft and batik, especially around
the Main Bazaar. The Iban have the most famous history
of crafts in Malaysian Borneo, but all the tribes of this
region have a strong tradition of traditional arts so it is
worth looking around.
Other things to buy in Malaysia
Luxury goods
Kuala Lumpur boasts some impressive shopping areas - including
the jewel in the crown of designer shopping, KLCC at
the base of the Petronas Towers. However, it is worth
comparing prices carefully, as there is quite a high tax on
luxury goods and if you are heading to a tax-free zone such
as Singapore, it may be worth waiting.
Genuine fakes
The night market along Petaling Street (Jalan Petaling)
in KL's Chinatown sells practically any kind of watch,
wallet, handbag, sunglasses, branded clothes or other "genuine
fakes". Nearby Central Market sells plenty of
local crafts and arts and other things of interest. Although
not strictly legal, Malaysia is also an ideal place to stock
up on cheap films, music and software. Check goods carefully
to make sure you approve of the quality before buying.
Antiques
Penang and Melaka are famous for antiques. Jonkers
Street in Melaka is the most famous for antique shopping,
while Penang Road in Penang has lots of dusty old shops
containing a wealth of surprises. Particularly nice pieces
are silver boxes with old Nyonya china decorating the lid. |
