Rattan holds a deep significance in Southeast Asian culture. Not only is it a testament to the traditions and heritage of its people but the intricately woven rattan products are used in various phases of life, symbolizing unity, abundance, and protection.
Sadly, though, the art of rattan weaving is now dying. Popular back in the 1960s and the 1970s, demand has dwindled over the last 20 years or so.
Ancient skill
The art and craft of rattan weaving is an ancient skill that has been practiced in Asia for thousands of years and of a rich Asian heritage passed down through generations.
“Rattan weaving can be traced back to 16th century China,” says Prof. Arnold Aguilar, who teaches Asian Studies at the university level. “It spread to various parts of Asia over time, with each region developing its own techniques, styles, and innovation.”
Rattan is a tough but pliant bamboo variety that grows in dense forests near lakes and other water sources.
Across Thailand, rattan is one of the natural materials found in Thai forests. Local Thai artisans use rattan as a weaving and binding material, and to create household items and furniture.
This versatile material is a testament to the art of sustainable living and traditional craftsmanship in Thailand and in the region, and has woven its way into the daily lives of people in local communities.
Lifestyle and tradition
Rattan basketry is an old practice commonly found in Chantaboon or Chanthaburi Province in Thailand. “In the old days, every household would have Chantaboon mats laid on the floors.
These mats could also be fashioned into table mats, placemats, and bags,” says Poom, who grew up in the area but now works as a creative director in an agency in Bangkok.
“In the North, people made raised trays and small tools from woven rattan. Houses back then did not have raised floors. The small woven stools were mostly used by women while doing chores like cooking and stitching.
“The woven rattan products were also used during meal times, as a small stool to sit on and for putting food and dishes on. Strainers were used to filter boiled fermented fish liquid; a loosely woven cone or huad was and still is often used to steam glutinous rice.
When done, the rice is spread in a basket to cool down before being put in a container called a kratip which helps keep the rice warm and comes in attractive designs and various shapes and sizes”, he explains.
These products were once popular in Bangkok and the rattan weaving industry was a lucrative industry for the hilltribe members who were making these products.
“Nowadays, they have found better jobs and trades but a few of them still make these products but only for their own domestic use,” Poom says.
Art of the craft
According to Prof. Aguilar, rattan weaving is typically a family or community-oriented activity, with the skills and knowledge passed down from generation to generation.
Different techniques are used in rattan weaving, namely plaiting, coiling, and wrapping. “Plaiting is the process of weaving together rattan strips.
Coiling means stringing strips around the interior to create a spiral pattern. Wrapping is putting one or more strips of rattan around a frame or object, and then additional strips are woven in to create a solid structure,” explains Rita Soliman, who heads a group of women volunteers in Manila that teaches marginalized urban dwellers arts and crafts.
According to Rita, to create a plaited rattan pattern, strips are woven together in an over-under fashion.
“The ends are secured with a knot or a clip. Weaving continues until the desired length is reached. The coiled rattan pattern, on the other hand, can be shaped into a variety of objects, such as baskets, bowls, and trays.”
“Meanwhile, the wrapped rattan pattern technique is used for creating chairs and other household furniture. In many rural communities, rattan baskets are part of daily life; used for carrying food and other essentials, as well as for storing and transporting goods.”
Dying trade
The art of rattan weaving demands time and great skills and the rattan trade itself is no longer considered lucrative.
“The arduous commitment one has to invest in the business is currently driving away members of the young generation from this age-old art and industry,” Prof. Aguilar notes.
“In Myanmar, although the harvesting of rattan has become a traditional practice for generations, many young people do not see it s a main source of income anymore,” said one local.
In Singapore, rattan weaving is considered one of the dying trades.
“It is said that there is now only one practicing rattan craftsman in Singapore named Go Kok Sieng,” said one local resident.
Indeed, in one of his interviews with the National Heritage Board of Singapore, Kok Sieng had mentioned that “the demand for hand-woven rattan goods fell drastically due to the shift in synthetic-based household products manufactured using modern machinery.”
Renewed confidence
Rattan weaving, however, is undergoing an interesting twist in Malaysia.
“Rattan furniture was popular throughout the 70s and 80s in Malaysia,” says Anita, a local interior designer.
“Almost every Malaysian home had rattan furniture in their living room. Sadly, the introduction of furniture made from cheaper synthetic materials affected the business. This made the younger generation shy away from the industry,” she said.
However, rattan craftsmanship has seen a renewed boost in recent years, with some trendy café and restaurant owners showing new appreciation for rattan.
“I just hope it continues. Apart from its beauty and strength, rattan is also a sustainable and renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly choice for people and communities that are still practicing the craft of rattan weaving,” Anita said.
This article is part of a series about the vanishing cultural traditions in Southeast Asia.
By Veena Thoopkrajae with additional report by Oz Hersa
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