A traditional Malaysian drum, three craftsmen and a race against time

TANAH MERAH, Nov 3 — The traditional rebana mangkuk, a three-crafted Malaysian drum, is rapidly fading into obscurity. Only three people, all related, continue to create this unique percussion instrument in the Tanah Merah district of Kelantan. The rebana mangkuk, rooted in Kelantanese Malay rhythms, faces extinction not only in performance but also in its manufacture. With only three skilled craftsmen remaining, the decline of the rebana mangkuk is a growing concern.

Crafted from a ceramic latex-collection bowl, natural rubber latex drumhead and beater, the rebana mangkuk produces a sharper and more distinctive sound than drums made with alternative materials. Each drum requires 33 to 48 layers of rubber, with each layer meticulously tested and adjusted to achieve the desired tone. The labor-intensive process takes roughly a week per drum, but the craftsman can produce up to 20 drums a month when there is sufficient demand.

Raw materials are becoming increasingly scarce, presenting a significant challenge for the remaining craftsmen. Ceramic latex-collection bowls are hard to find as most rubber tappers now use plastic bowls, while natural rubber latex is becoming harder to source. Rattan, another essential material, is also difficult to obtain. These growing challenges increase the cost of producing the rebana mangkuk, which currently costs around RM170 per drum.

Although young people show interest in playing the rebana mangkuk, few are willing to learn the intricate process of making the traditional instrument. Mohd Hasbullah, one of the few remaining craftsmen, is concerned that the art could become extinct. He has already considered giving up the tradition, but remains committed to preserving this cultural heritage.