Noraini A Ghani, from Kampung Banggol Donas here, said she ventured into the craft industry about nine years ago after leaving her banking career to devote more time to her family.
Cik Ning, as she is fondly known, shared that she started sewing tote bags just to keep herself busy and as gifts for friends and family.
“I used to work as a journalist at the Utusan Group and spent five years in banking before quitting in 2016.
“After leaving my job, I found myself browsing websites and social media more often. I got the idea to make tote bags after seeing many beautiful bags in the market, but none featuring batik motifs,” she told Bernama recently.
Cik Ning said she never expected her craftwork to gain public attention or generate orders, but believed that the unique designs and batik motifs set her “Crafted by Cikning” products apart from others.
Encouraged by her husband’s firm support, she has poured her creativity into producing a wide range of batik craft products: neckties, wallets, phone cases, bags, shoes, tablecloths, laptop bags, jackets and more.
“The prices range from RM10 to RM300. I also sell online to reach customers across the country and abroad,” said the Malaysian Skills Certificate Level 3 holder.
Cik Ning has also received support from government agencies, including the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda), in the form of grants and equipment.
“I received a RM10,000 grant for a sewing machine, as well as assistance for product packaging, including paper bags bearing my brand, from Risda,” she shared.
“I’m also grateful that Risda helped me register the trademark with the Malaysian Intellectual Property Corporation (MyIPO).”
She added that she is frequently invited to conduct short courses at the Kuala Terengganu Community College and Kraftangan Terengganu.
“Alhamdulillah, my decision to quit my job to focus on my family has been worthwhile,” concluded Cik Ning, who often goes for training courses to improve her skills and business prospects.