FROM PRISON WALLS TO THE GLOBAL STAGE: TENUN PAHANG DIRAJA TO ADORN ASEAN LEADERS AT GALA DINNER

By Linda Khoo

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- Tenun Pahang Diraja, woven by inmates behind the walls of Bentong Prison, will take centre stage as ASEAN and world leaders wear the exquisite pieces at the Gala Dinner of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits here tomorrow night.

Highlighting Malaysia’s rich cultural artistry, 31 inmates trained in Tenun Pahang Diraja crafted 35 handwoven fabrics, each measuring three metres long and 35 inches wide, to create shirts for the leaders attending the prestigious event.

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Prison Chief Inspector Wan Yuzaini Wan Samsudin said 16 inmates were responsible for pre-weaving tasks, including thread preparation and dyeing, while 15 others focused on intricate weaving using traditional wooden looms.

Guided by skilled trainers, the inmates spent about a month selecting the colours, patterns, and designs, followed by three months of weaving.

“It is a true testament to their dedication and craftsmanship. I am extremely proud and deeply moved to see the creations of our inmates showcased internationally and recognised on the global stage,” he told Bernama.

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Wan Yuzaini, who is the officer in charge of the Tenun Pahang Diraja Workshop at Bentong Prison, added that such recognition inspires both inmates and prison officers to nurture skilled artisans capable of producing high-quality and artistically valuable works.

He explained that the colour combination chosen for the leaders’ attire reflects status, local customs, and the nation’s identity.

“The motifs and decorative designs chosen for Tenun Pahang Diraja use the ‘ikat cuai’ technique and ‘bunga colek tabur’ techniques, each with its own philosophy. The patterns of this woven cloth are a heritage that carries the identity, status, and beliefs of the Malay community in Pahang,” he said.

The achievement highlights the Malaysian Prison Department’s dedication to providing inmates with meaningful rehabilitation through skill-based training programmes.

“The achievement also proves that every individual has the potential to change and succeed when given a second chance,” he added.

Wan Yuzaini said inmates undergo structured training covering all stages of traditional fabric production, from thread preparation and loom setup to advanced weaving techniques using the kek tenun at the Bentong Prison Weaving Workshop.

The courses are conducted by trained prison officers who closely supervise each phase to ensure precision and quality, he said.

“Quality control is given utmost priority to ensure that every woven fabric meets the standards of Tenun Pahang Diraja, with inmates participating in regular courses and workshops to maintain the highest level of craftsmanship,” he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, will host the gala dinner for ASEAN leaders and guests at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) on Sunday.

Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN chairmanship this year under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, is hosting the 47th ASEAN Summit from today until Oct 28.

The summit welcomed leaders from all 11 ASEAN member states and key dialogue partners, including the United States, China, Japan and India.

The event is expected to be the largest ASEAN gathering since the organisation’s inception in 1967 and underscores the region’s growing prominence on the global stage.

-- BERNAMA