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A Chinese Malaysian family in Gelang Patah, Johor, has been weaving ketupat for sale every year during Ramadan and Hari Raya
According to Harian Metro, their story stands out as ketupat weaving is a tradition typically associated with the Malay community.
Ng Meng Chee, 63, said he learned to weave ketupat from his mother-in-law when he was 26.
"At first it was quite difficult, but after practising continuously for six months, I finally became skilled at weaving ketupat," he said when met at his home in Kampung Paya Mengkuang on Tuesday, 17 March.
Ng said people are often surprised the first time they see him weaving ketupat
"Some don't believe it at first, but when they see it themselves, then they are convinced.
"Although ketupat is synonymous with Hari Raya dishes, my interest helped me master this skill," he said.
Ng shared that all six of his children have also mastered the skill over the years
During the festive season, the family sells their ketupat at public markets around Johor Bahru and fulfils orders from neighbours, most of whom are Malay.
"I'm fortunate that my children learned how to weave ketupat while they were still in school. They are the ones who help me complete orders every Ramadan and Aidilfitri," he said.
According to Ng, he and his children can weave about 1,000 ketupat a day, with each piece sold for between 5 and 60 sen.
Interestingly, Ng said ketupat is also part of his own family's celebrations, which he serves with homemade rendang every Chinese New Year.
