CYBERJAYA: A booth selling tanjak (traditional Malay headgear) attracted the attention of visitors at the people's carnival held in conjunction with the launch of the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2024, here today.
Muhamad Ali Yusof, the owner of Karya Jemari Kayangan from Terengganu, said he was grateful for the interest shown by people of various ethnicities in this Malay heritage.
"My goal in promoting and selling this product is also to raise awareness about tanjak such as understanding their designs and social status associated with each type of headgear," the 50-year-old entrepreneur told Bernama.
Muhamad Ali, who ventured into selling Malay heritage products, including busana Melayu (traditional Malay costume) in 2014, said he brought 15 types of tanjak to be sold at the carnival.
"I brought several classic tanjak designs worn by royalty and palace officials in the past, including Tanjak Belalai Gajah worn by the Sultan of Terengganu, Tanjak Anak Belalai Gajah worn by the Crown Prince of Terengganu and Tanjak Bendahara worn by the Bendahara of Terengganu.
"We also have the Tanjak Perang typically worn by those going to war. Wearing this headgear signifies the wearer's intention to engage in battle. They would not return unless victorious or martyred," he said.
A visitor who wished to be known only as Jason, 52, said the sale of the tanjak indirectly provides knowledge to the public about its history.
"I feel excited to learn the history of tanjak and the meaning behind each design.
"Usually, we can access this kind of information through exhibitions like this," he added.