Kelantan craftsman carves out a living with Quranic wall art
KOTA BHARU : What began as a simple idea using leftover plywood has turned into a thriving business for one craftsman in Kelantan.
When Muhammad Ali Che Pa was laid off as a sales representative during the Movement Control Order in 2020, he decided to fall back on his artistic capabilities.
'I was desperate for income. That's when I got the idea to create decorative wall pieces featuring Quranic verses using wood I already had at home,' he told Bernama at his workshop in Kampung Pangkal Kalong, Kok Lanas recently.
Relying on self-taught skills from Facebook and YouTube, he spent six months creating his first piece, which unexpectedly sold for RM150 after he posted it online.
Today, the 31-year-old produces a range of Islamic-themed woodcraft, including framed calligraphy, wall clocks and home-décor items, which are popular among buyers from Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Singapore.
'Plywood is ideal because it's easy to cut and shape. I sketch the design on paper, transfer it to the wood, then carve and sand it,' he said.
Ali produces over 300 items monthly, priced between RM3 and RM800, earning him a five-figure income. (Bernama pic)
Initially, he would carve each piece manually – but this would take him up to four days apiece, limiting him to just 15 units a month.
To improve efficiency, Ali adopted laser-cutting technology two years ago, which has significantly sped up production and improved his precision, enabling him to meet rising demand.
He also received a RM10,000 wood router – used for hollowing out, shaping and trimming wood – under Risda Kelantan's entrepreneur mentorship programme, and is anticipating another laser cutter soon.
Ali now produces over 300 items a month, priced between RM3 and RM800. 'Each design has its own value,' he said. His monthly income has soared to five figures, driven by strong demand.
'I'm grateful that through this craft and my brand Art Lie Craft, I can share the beauty of the Quran while earning a halal, blessed livelihood,' added Ali, who is assisted by his wife, Nur Hanisah Mohd Zulkifli.
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