Turning Hobby Into Heritage: Kelantan Artisan Keeps Jebak Puyuh Alive

KOTA BHARU, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- What began as a pastime has become a mission for a Kelantan craftsman determined to keep the traditional art of making Jebak Puyuh (quail traps) alive, a craft now rarely seen.

For Mohd Maliki Mohd Rosli, 38, of Kampung Kraftangan, a childhood fascination has grown into a lifelong commitment, turning the humble bird trap into a symbol of Malay heritage and artistry.

“Even though times have changed, I want this craft to stay alive and be passed on. It is not just a bird trap, but a heritage symbol full of artistry and detail,” he told Bernama at the Kelantan Malay Textile and Heritage Festival at Istana Balai Besar.

The father of three began making Jebak Puyuh six years ago as a hobby, after buying one in Bachok for RM800 and being captivated by its intricate design.

His first attempt took nearly three months to complete and he later sharpened his skills by attending a course in Kampung Bunohan, Tumpat in 2021.

Each trap, he said, demands patience and specialised skills. The base is carved with floral motifs such as pucuk paku (fiddlehead fern) and ketam guri (arrowleaf sida), while the body is crafted from finely shaved bamboo woven neatly with selected woods like arang bunga, setor and jackfruit. It is finished with front weaves and counterweights of tin or copper.

Depending on the complexity, a single trap can take from one month to almost a year to complete, with prices ranging between RM2,500 and RM5,500.

“It requires the right mood because of its precision. If a mistake happens, the work has to be redone from the base,” he said.

For now, Mohd Maliki focuses on sales within Kelantan, personally delivering to out-of-state customers to avoid damage.

Alongside silverwork, he also promotes his Jebak Puyuh creations on TikTok under the handle @malikisayapkumbang88 to introduce the heritage craft to a wider audience.

-- BERNAMA