Labu Sayong is a traditional gourd-shaped water pitcher made from clay, originating from the village of Sayong in Perak, Malaysia. Known for its distinctive shape and blackened surface, it serves both functional and decorative purposes. Acting as a natural refrigerator, the pitcher keeps water cool and refreshing, and the stored water is also believed to contain minerals beneficial to the body. Typically handcrafted using traditional techniques, the pottery is burnished or fired to achieve its signature dark sheen. Despite its heritage status, handcrafted Labu Sayong is increasingly rare today, as the labour-intensive process has made it difficult for the craft to be passed down to younger generations. Most Labu Sayong today are now mass-produced using molds.
The clip on the right showcases the gentle hands of Maznah Sulaiman, also known as Mak Nah, a long-time collaborator of Shooshie and one of the last remaining artisans with the knowledge to source and prepare the clay, and to mold a Labu Sayong from scratch.
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