Woven Artistry

Even after four generations, Rattan Art is still flourishing with the expert use of the timeless, classic material.

Rattan, which comes from the Malay word rotan, is a significant material in Malaysia, often used in crafts that appeal to locals and tourists alike. On top of the charming quality, rattan is also a material with a range of great properties. For instances, rattan is very flexible, which allows it to not only be bent into various patterns, but the malleability makes it less prone to crack under pressure or weight. Furthermore, rattan is a material that is suitable for outdoors due to its durability.

Having thrived through four generations, Rattan Art is one of the oldest and largest rattan furniture manufacturer in Malaysia. The current director of Rattan Art, Tay Cek Xin, has been surrounded by rattan since childhood days, so it’s second nature to him to now operate the store and interact with the rattan. The decades of experience and tradition of Tay and Rattan Art is apparent through the range of products the store features that showcase a deep understanding of the material and a history of creativity. From smaller crafts like rattan bags and baskets to L-shaped sofas, Rattan Art covers a variety of products. Clients often bring pictures of rattan furniture they found to ask Rattan Art to recreate it, or work with the company to customise furniture that will perfectly fit in their space.

Fast Fact: Species: Ashwood, Nyatoh & Rubber

This company has seen a multitude of trends rise and fall throughout the decade, as well as see rattan persist to be a product that people seek out due to its versatility. The beauty of rattan lies in the artistry that goes behind it. It’s the years of training and craftsmanship that shines through these handmade products. Each piece of rattan furniture tells a unique story; each item is a special art piece in its own right. The sustainability of rattan shouldn’t be forgotten either. Most furniture require a lot of wood, but rattan grows quickly and its manufacturing doesn’t require excessive production that pollutes the environment.

Beyond rattan, the company also blends rattan with wood features. The mixture of rattan and wood, such as ash wood, nyatoh and rubber wood, brings out a unique je ne sais quoi vibe that makes the piece of furniture artistic, modern and elegant. It creates a trendy feeling that goes against stereotypes of rattan being a material used by older generations. The Malaysian Timber Industry Board has also given a platform to rattan, allowing more people to become aware of its versatility and potential instead of wrongly assuming it’s only suitable for the typical rocking chair. Being the fourth generation director of this business, Tay has no doubts about rattan’s potential. With this evergreen material and art, Rattan Art will continue to its tradition and carry on through time.

For further information, visit www.rattanart.com.my | 017 622 2530