Art of making handmade paper effigies slowly giving way due to lack of interest from younger generation and machine-made creations The multitude of coloured papers in every shape and size put to use at a workshop in Semenyih, Selangor, is testament to a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Completed house, boat and car paper effigies crafted with meticulous attention to detail and the menacing figure of Da Shi Ye (guardian god of ghosts) towering in the middle were a reflection of master craftsman Pua Kok Huat’s skills. This 54-year-old’s busiest season is now, the seventh month of the lunar calendar.
ALSO READ: Festival in KL to appease wandering spirits began due to road accidents in Jln Pahang “Orders of paper effigies from individuals and Chinese associations will come flooding in for the Hungry Ghost Festival,” Pua said when met. The festival is observed on the 15th of the seventh lunar month, which falls on Aug 18. Paper boats being stacked up at Chan’s workshop in Kepong.
— Photos: SAMUEL ONG and CHAN TAK KONG/The Star It is believed that the gates of hell open and ghosts roam the human world during the month. Traditionally, altars would be set up to offer food, incense, joss paper money and other paraphernalia while Chinese devotees burn paper effigies, which represent the luxuries of the earthly world, to honour and appease wandering souls. “Many would order a huge paper effigy of Da Shi Ye, also known as Por Tor Kong, during this per.