Ever wondered what it would be like to fly a kite as big as your living room? In Malaysia, that’s not just a dream – it’s a centuries-old tradition. Meet the Wau Bulan, a massive crescent-shaped kite that’s been turning heads skyward for generations.
These aren’t your average kites. Wau Bulan can stretch up to 3.5 meters tall with a wingspan of 2.5 meters. That’s taller than most basketball players! But size isn’t the only thing that makes these kites special. Each one is a work of art, intricately designed with colorful patterns that reflect Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.
The Wau has deep roots in Malaysian history. Back in the day, farmers would fly these kites after the rice harvest, using them to scare birds away from their fields. Some even say the gentle humming sound of a Wau in flight could lull children to sleep, giving hardworking parents a much-needed break.
Crafting a Wau is no walk in the park. It takes serious skill and patience. Artisans start with a bamboo frame, carefully shaping and tying it together. Then comes the real magic – applying intricate designs using colorful paper cut-outs. The whole process can take anywhere from a week to three months, depending on how complex the design is.
But here’s the catch – this amazing tradition is at risk of fading away. As smartphones and video games capture more attention, fewer young people are picking up the art of Wau making. That’s where people like Mohd Haniff Salleh come in.
At 41, Haniff is one of the youngest Wau makers in Kelantan, the heartland of this craft. He learned from his grandfather and is now on a mission to keep the tradition alive. By day, he works in automotive sales. But evenings and weekends? That’s Wau time. Haniff runs workshops, creates stunning kites for international customers, and – get this – he’s even gone viral on TikTok with his Wau-making videos.
“If we don’t take the time to educate others, they may not even know about the existence of this art form,” Haniff says. He’s not alone in his efforts. Cultural organizations are working to showcase Wau at exhibitions, and there’s a push to use social media and online tutorials to spark interest in the younger crowd.
So, next time you’re scrolling through your feed and spot a massive, colorful kite soaring through the sky, take a moment to appreciate the Wau. It’s not just a kite – it’s a flying piece of Malaysian history, art, and innovation all rolled into one. Who knows? You might even be inspired to try your hand at this sky-high craft yourself!