KUALA LANGAT, Oct 26 — A live demonstration of traditional mask and wooden figurine carving by renowned Mah Meri artisan Kemi Khamis, 56, was the main attraction during the two-day Budaya@Komuniti: Pasar Mui Mah Meri 2025 event at the Orang Asli Craft Centre in Pulau Carey.
The art continues to be preserved by the Kampung Sungai Bumbun resident, recognised as one of the most experienced sculptors dedicated to safeguarding his ancestral heritage.
He said that he began carving at 19, inheriting the skill from his father Khamis anak Othman, who was among the earliest sculptors in the village.
“I learnt from my father, then gained more knowledge from my uncle and elder brother. Now, I am continuing this craft so that the heritage will not disappear,” Kemi told Media Selangor at the event.
He added that each Mah Meri mask carries its own meaning and is closely linked to the traditional beliefs of the Orang Asli community, passed down through generations.
“These masks are inspired by the story of two guardians of nature, Tok Nania and Tok Pongkola, who wear the masks during annual celebratory rituals,” Kemi said.
Among his well-known carvings are moyang pot, moyang kelom, moyang happit, moyang puting beliung, moyang bidai, and moyang tembakul, priced between RM1,200 and RM1,500 depending on the piece's size and design complexity.
In addition to carving as a supplementary source of income, Kemi also works as a fisherman and helps harvest oil palm fruit. However, he remains determined to continue producing new works so that the younger generation will appreciate and carry forward the Mah Meri artistic heritage.
