Sekinchan: The Selangor Malay Customs and Heritage Corporation (PADAT) is actively expanding public exposure to the art of telepuk, particularly among the younger generation, through programmes such as exhibitions, demonstrations, and training nationwide.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, PADAT information officer Farhani Shamsudin emphasized the importance of this initiative to ensure that the traditional heritage art remains recognized and does not fade into obscurity, especially among the new generation. Telepuk is described as a traditional Malay textile decorative technique that has long existed and was once commonly used among royalty and the nobility.
Farhani highlighted that in Selangor, the use of telepuk fabric dates back to the era of Daeng Chelak, the father of Sultan Salehuddin Shah (Raja Lumu), underscoring its significant historical value within the state's royal institution. She noted that the art continued to develop during the reign of Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah, with Tengku Ampuan Jemaah introducing innovation by transitioning telepuk tools from wood to metal engraving.
She explained the intricate process of producing telepuk, which involves using a patterned block or stamp pressed onto a specially developed adhesive pad. The block is then applied to the fabric surface before affixing gold leaf to the glued sections, which is brushed gently to create a shimmering motif. This precise process requires careful execution in a controlled environment to ensure perfect results.
Farhani added that the finished telepuk fabric is used to create items such as tanjak, samping, shawls, waist sashes, and handkerchiefs, often worn at royal ceremonies and weddings. To align with current advancements, PADAT has adopted computer numerical control (CNC) technology for producing telepuk stamps, allowing for faster production without compromising traditional aesthetic value.
To enhance public engagement, PADAT offers visitors opportunities to try the telepuk technique through free programmes or affordable workshops priced as low as RM5. Last year, PADAT conducted over 10 outreach programmes across several states including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Pahang, and published reference books like "Kesenian Telepuk Warisan Melayu Selangor" and "Warisan Telepuk Alam Melayu" based on internal research.
Farhani mentioned that PADAT has established a Selangor Telepuk House near the Sultan Alam Shah Museum as an initial step towards creating a center for telepuk activities and development in the state. This initiative aligns with the aspirations of the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, to revive and popularize Selangor telepuk among the public.
Acknowledging the challenge of a lack of new practitioners among the youth, PADAT is actively training its staff to become instructors before expanding training to the public. Visitor Nor Nazihah Mustaffa Kamal, 25, expressed her newfound appreciation for telepuk after witnessing a live demonstration at the exhibition. She emphasized the art's uniqueness due to its use of gold and its distinction from other textile techniques.
Her sister, Nor Nasirafitri Mustaffa Kamal, 23, also shared her interest in telepuk after learning about its patterns and production techniques, advocating for its preservation and increased exposure among the youth.