Reported by:
Ng Yi Phin Jr3Z(2)
Photography by:
Kuen Cheng Photography Club
As Malaysians, it may come as a shock when we realize how little we know about other ethnic cultures. However, as luck would have it, Kuen Cheng High School managed to invite Dr. Fiona Wong from Sunway University gave all Junior Middle Three students a talk on 12 August 2023 regarding “Wau”s, a traditional Malay kite, a national treasure. This event has been designed to enrich the Merdeka Month celebrations.
Before the talk began, Madam Loh Hoi Yuen, Head of the Academic Department, presented Dr. Fiona with a gift basket and certificate as a token of appreciation. Dr. Fiona is a lecturer at Sunway University holding different academic degrees in illustration, visual arts, graphic design and philosophy. Her research normally covers Malaysian cultural heritages.
In her talk, the Art of Wau Bulan, Dr. Fiona shared with us the symbolism, structure and productions of “Wau”s, and also introduced some modern and creative designs. Some interesting knowledge we have learnt from the talk was that:
“Wau bulan” actually has three moons in its structure, a half-moon, full moon and crescent moon!
There are up to 15 types of “Wau”s.
Wau competitions are held, with contestants comparing their “Wau”s for their beauty and flying ability.
Between each topic, Dr. Fiona also shared with us enthralling videos regarding “Wau”s, every participant paying close attention.
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After the sharing session was a fun hands-on session for all the Jr3 students. We were given a piece of paper beforehand containing a plain white “Wau”, and were required to draw our own designs after the talk. In the meantime, Dr. Fiona went from row to row to observe and comment on our drawings. You could say the students were extremely committed, as loads of them could be seen raising hands, requesting Dr. Fiona to look at their drawings. It was a session filled with laughter.
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“Cheese!” After a group photo was taken, the talk came to an end. We really appreciate Dr. Fiona for taking her time to give us this illuminating as well as enlightening talk and hope each participant has learnt more about this Malaysian cultural heritage. Wow…Wau!
