For these two men, bonsai is a lesson in slowing down

Wong Wah Hung and Mahenthiran Natarajan, who differ in age by 36 years, share an unexpected bond through the practice of bonsai. The 73-year-old spends a significant portion of his day tending to his collection of 60 plants, while the 37-year-old often dedicates his entire day to the craft when time permits. Despite their differing schedules, both men find solace and a unique state of mind by forming and nurturing their miniature trees in containers.

Bonsai, a Japanese art of growing and shaping trees, has become more than just a hobby for both of them, forming an integral part of their lives.

The Malaysia Bonsai & Suiseki Society, a non-profit organisation based in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, encourages enthusiasts to explore this ancient craft. The society hosts the 10th World Bonsai Convention Malaysia from August 28 to 31, aiming to bring together experts and delegates for demonstrations, talks, exhibitions, and competitions. This event showcases the beauty of bonsai and suiseki - the traditional Japanese art of appreciating small, naturally shaped stones that evoke landscapes, objects, or abstract patterns.

Mahenthiran's journey with bonsai began in 2016 when he joined the society. Prior to this, he had been gardening since his schooldays and had purchased his first bonsai at the age of 18. His experience with bonsai has taught him valuable lessons in patience and resilience. Similarly, Wong's interest in bonsai began in 2005, when he rescued a dead bonsai from the roadside and nursed it back to health.

Growing up in a banking environment, he found the need for speed and stress-inducing nature of his previous occupation to be in stark contrast to the slow, patient approach required for bonsai.

Both men appreciate that bonsai does not necessarily involve rare or expensive trees. Local favourites like water jasmine and cucur atap are popular among enthusiasts. As they grow more experienced, they learn to recognise the specific needs of their trees, almost instinctively. These trees offer a lesson in appreciation and understanding over time, providing an alternative to the fast-paced world they live in.