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JOJAPS

eISSN 2504-8457

Journal Online Jaringan Pengajian Seni Bina (JOJAPS)

Exclusivity vs Functionality:

A Case Study of Labu Sayong

a1
Nor Rofizah Johari *, Khaled Mohamad Omar, Aisyah Mohd Yasim, Mohd Sodiq Saadon,
Muhammad Aiman Mazlan

a Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan, KM 10, Jalan Kong Kong, 81700 Pasir Gudang, Selangor

Abstract
Sayong is normally used a water vessel which is believed to have medicinal effects. Tourist are now the majority buyer of Labu
Sayong as this product served as souvenirs for them to bring back home. As technology moved forward for better, Labu Sayong
are now made using modern techniques in order to cater to market’s demand. Traditional Labu Sayong makers are now on the
verge of extinction as fewer potters are now adopting the modern method. This research was conducted to examine the potentials
use of contemporary methods in manufacturing Labu Sayong in replacing the traditional method while at the same time
sustaining its exclusivity and functionality. Data for this paper were collected using qualitative methods that included interview
and observation. This research found that there were differences between the traditional and modern production of labu sayong
which are divided into exclusivity, technology and economical values. The exclusivity in Labu Sayong is the clay that is made
from, which only available in Kepala Bendang, Sayong. Based on the interviews conducted, this study found that both traditional
and modern Labu Sayong have the same benefits when it comes to functionality. Based on the economy factor, the traditional
Labu Sayong is not relevant today as it takes more time and labour compared to modern Labu Sayong whilst being much more
expensive. The perception of Labu Sayong among local residents and tourists have changed over time and they are no longer
concern much about its exclusivity and functionality. Consequently, this not only can help to minimize the operational cost but
also ease production as well as maintaining the originality of Labu Sayong.

© 2020 Published by JOJAPS Limited.
Key-word: - Labu Sayong, Exclusivity, Functionality, Modern, Traditional

1. Introduction

Art and crafts in Malaysia play a huge role in socio-culture and should be recognized as a regional, local and national
importance that has a heritage significance. Labu Sayong is categorized as one of the most significant culture heritage in
Malaysia. It is not only admired for its functionality, but also for its beauty and unique form (Noordin, 2012). With the
implementation of modern manufacturing process in the handicrafts sector, there has been an increase in craft sales, especially
among foreign markets (Redzuan & Aref, 2011). Labu Sayong makers can not only make their products faster, but also at
cheaper cost, hence creating a distinctiveness in the manufacturing process. However, given a certain amount of time, the
traditional way of making the Labu Sayong will slowly be forgotten.

*Nor Rofizah Johari, Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan Tel.: 0162663117 ; fax : 072612402
E-mail address: joharinorro@gmail.com

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