How a school project led Imanuddin to wayang kulit

Two years ago, 10-year-old Nik Imanuddin Hadeef was given a science assignment that would change his life. Initially, neither he nor his mother, Nur Hazween Hasni, realized the impact this task would have. The assignment required creating an object that could produce a shadow, which led Imanuddin and his mother to craft wayang kulit puppets using cardboard, based on characters like Dewa Panah and Pohon Beringin.

This activity quickly evolved into a passion, as Imanuddin spent his free time making more puppets, honing his skills, and even performing in front of audiences.

Imanuddin's mentor, wayang kulit practitioner Che Ann, also known as Kang Boon Ann, helped him develop his craft, teaching him puppet manipulation, traditional music, and the basics of being a tok dalang. This training culminated in his first public performance in Tok Bali, which he found both challenging and rewarding. Imanuddin admits that mastering different voices for each character remains one of the most difficult aspects of his art, but his dedication has paid off.

Nur Hazween notes that while her son enjoys drawing and playing instruments, his deep interest lies in traditional arts like wayang kulit. She attributes this inclination to her father, a former arts lecturer, and her son's shy demeanor has transformed into confidence since his performances. This newfound confidence has positively affected Imanuddin's school life, particularly in storytelling and Da’i Cilik competitions.

Nur Hazween ensures that Imanuddin's passion for wayang kulit does not interfere with his studies, arranging practice sessions around his school schedule. She believes it is crucial to pass on this traditional art to future generations before it becomes forgotten.