Captivated by the unique patterns and colours crafted by local artisans, Ng, 60, now makes bags using batik fabric as the main material in his designs.

“Previously, I mostly made PVC and canvas bags like many other brands. But about 12 years ago, when I attended the National Craft Day and saw the works of batik makers, it truly opened my eyes to the beauty of batik.

“I thought, since we’re creating a Malaysian product, we should use Malaysian batik because it has its own identity and uniqueness that can attract foreign tourists,” he told Bernama at the Asean Arts & Crafts Bazaar here recently.

Under his brand Finders Keepers Collection, Ng sells backpacks, sling bags, tote bags, and document bags – all designed and sewn by hand in his small workshop in Kota Damansara here.

The batik motifs are created using the wax block technique, a skill he picked up through YouTube tutorials and guidance from experienced individuals, which he managed to master in just a month.

“Each bag takes between five and six days to complete, depending on the complexity of the design, while prices range from RM100 to RM300 per piece,” Ng said.

Ng, who markets his products online and at events organised by Kraftangan Malaysia, said his favourite motifs are rubber and papaya leaves, as well as tropical patterns, which he adapts in both traditional and modern styles to cater to diverse customers.

Learn more about Finders Keepers Collection on Instagram.