Today, the 48-year-old is a pioneer in producing “bunga lado”-patterned batik: a distinctive design synonymous with Negeri Sembilan and steadily gaining popularity in the market.
The owner of D’niy Arts Batik Negeri Sembilan said she began painting batik at home. What began as a small venture would evolve into her primary source of income by 2004.
Her breakthrough came after she received a grant from the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Kraftangan Malaysia), along with support from the state government, which provided her with a factory to expand her batik production.
Norhaslilee acknowledged that her success as a batik entrepreneur would not have been possible without the support of her family and the early encouragement of her late teacher Othman Buyong.
He was the first person who truly believed in her talent and potential in the field, she said. “I remember I wasn’t good at drawing at all, but Cikgu Othman was truly committed to teaching me proper techniques.
“After seeing one of my early works, he told me I had talent that could be nurtured with the right guidance. That encouragement made me fall in love with the world of art.”
Distinct designs, unique stories
According to Norhaslilee, the batik she produces is more contemporary and abstract, particularly the bunga lado or “pepper flower” pattern.
“My bunga lado designs carry their own character and philosophy distinct from the more traditional styles found on the east coast,” she told Bernama recently.
“Every piece has its own story. If anyone asks, I’m happy to explain the meaning behind the patterns, as each has its own uniqueness.”
After close to two decades of producing batik, Norhaslilee has built a strong base of regular customers and loyal followers, many of whom can instantly recognise her distinctive touch and distinguish her hand-painted pieces from those of others.
She said she has three workers who handle the colouring process, but she personally paints each piece to ensure the quality meets her standards and aligns with customers’ expectations.
Norshalilee, who runs her business in Senawang here, is also a supplier to batik entrepreneurs on the east coast, as well as in Sabah and Sarawak.
The mother of three added that her product range includes batik shirts, blouses, and her latest creation, the bunga lado batik “tengkolok” or traditional Malay headdress. Prices range from RM80 to RM800, depending on the fabric and complexity of the design.
Most of her products are sold to local suppliers and wholesalers, who then act as agents to market and distribute her clothing and fabrics.
“There are also boutique owners who place orders for my hand-painted batik fabrics and later sell them under their own brands. Alhamdulillah, we continue to receive new orders every year,” she said.
Looking ahead to Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026, Norhaslilee hopes to work with the state tourism, arts and culture committee, as well as Kraftangan Malaysia, to introduce bunga lado batik to an even wider audience.