Temiar people balance tradition with modern materials
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Temiar people in Malaysia are continuing their generations-old practice of facial art, adapting to dwindling supplies of traditional pigments.
Endah Angah, a 37-year-old member of the community, explained that finding natural materials like charcoal and kesumba seeds now requires venturing further into the forest. To maintain the practice, Temiar artists are using modern cosmetics as alternatives, finding they create brighter and longer-lasting designs.
Rahimah Punai, 39, emphasized that while materials have changed, the Temiar still carefully apply each line and dot because the designs hold ancestral meaning. The patterns represent connections to nature and the rivers of their homeland, and artists follow established designs to preserve their heritage. The facial art remains visible during important cultural events like Sewang dance ceremonies and community gatherings.
Abong Busu, 55, noted these events also serve as teaching moments, where elders explain the meanings behind the designs to younger generations. Rohaniza Abdullah, director of the Kelantan culture and arts department, observed that this shows how the tradition can evolve while still honouring its origins.
