{
  "id": 18047433,
  "title": "Turning wood into decorative, functional storage boxes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/turning-wood-into-decorative-functional-storage-boxes",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-04T00:55:53.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/11/1570259/turning-wood-decorative-functional-storage-boxes"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ahmad Tarmizi Zaid, a 63-year-old craft entrepreneur from Bukit Beruntung, Selangor, has found success in turning wood into charming and functional storage boxes under his brand Tampung Box. The Malay term \"tampung\" translates to accommodate or hold. These unique wooden sculptures feature concealed drawers and are designed in the shape of quirky characters or animals, with examples including a cat, bird, shoe, and other shapes.\n\nAhmad developed his woodworking skills primarily through self-learning, inspired by his passion for drawing and woodworking since childhood. After retiring early in 2014, he dedicated himself full-time to the handicraft business. His journey to create Tampung Box began when he struggled to sustain his previous business selling wooden sauna products due to competition from lower-priced, lower-quality sellers, and the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nTo create his distinctive products, Ahmad first sketches the figures he wants to shape, such as a cat or an owl, using computer software to develop the design and establish dimensions. He then cuts the wood pieces according to the template, which is transferred onto the wood. Using various woodworking tools, including a grinding machine, chisel, and others, he joins the cut pieces and shapes them to form the final product. Ahmad prefers pulai wood for its soft texture, easy shaping, and attractive grain, making it an ideal choice for his woodworking creations. Each Tampung Box is priced between RM45 and RM1,900, depending on the size, creativity, and aesthetic value of the storage box.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: For craft entrepreneur Ahmad Tarmizi Zaid, woodworking is about more than creating visually appealing pieces.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}