By Habsah Ismail
KOTA BHARU, July 26 (Bernama) -- Every year ahead of National Month, Reedhwah Reef’ah Abdul Rashid’s handmade Jalur Gemilang ribbons become a familiar sight at celebrations, schools and government events - a small craft carrying a big message of patriotism.
The 37-year-old owner of Ridh Leo Craft in Kampung Paya Senang said her passion for handicrafts since 2014 inspired her to create various handmade products before introducing National Day-themed ribbons about three years ago.
She said the idea came after noticing that patriotic-themed accessories available in the market at the time were limited and lacked a distinctive identity.
“I thought, why not create accessories that are more attractive, neat and exclusive so that people would be more excited to celebrate National Day,” she told Bernama when met at her home in Kampung Paya Senang, Telipot recently.
Reedhwah Reef’ah, a Diploma in Information Technology (Programming) graduate from Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, Perlis, uses her graphic skills to design 18 ribbons featuring hibiscus motifs and Jalur Gemilang elements.
She said each design begins with her own sketches created using a computer before being printed through a sublimation technique on special paper. The patterns are then transferred onto felt material using a heat press process before being cut into the desired shapes.
“Each ribbon is then assembled manually with pins and Jalur Gemilang decorations. Although machines help speed up the process, the handmade touch remains important as it determines the neatness and quality of each product.
“I believe handmade products have a value and personal touch that cannot be replaced by mass production. Although it takes longer, I am more satisfied with the final result,” she said.
Reedhwah Reef’ah said she initially completed all work manually using scissors before gradually purchasing machines and learning how to operate them through YouTube to improve the quality of her products.
Her efforts have paid off, with demand increasing every National Month as orders from schools, government departments, private companies and individuals reach thousands of units, requiring about 10 part-time workers to assist in completing them.
Sharing the challenges of handling peak-season orders, she said she and her husband, Ahmad Izzat Abdul Halim, 42, who is also a co-owner of the business, often work late into the night to ensure every order is completed on time.
“Seeing people wearing ribbons made by our own hands during National Day celebrations gives me a satisfaction that is difficult to describe. I feel proud and grateful that our craft has become part of the celebrations,” she said.
Reedhwah Reef’ah said the Jalur Gemilang is not merely a flag, but a symbol of unity, sacrifice and gratitude for the peace enjoyed by Malaysians.
“Sometimes, small things like wearing a ribbon can remind us about the importance of appreciating independence and loving our country. I hope through this craft, I can contribute in a small way to nurturing the spirit of love for Malaysia,” she said.
-- BERNAMA