KUCHING – His Excellency Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, received a courtesy visit from renowned Bruneian songkok artisan Shah Indra at his official residence in Petra Jaya on Wednesday.
The visit was led by Shah Indra’s founder, Pg Azlan Shah Pg Hj Ahmad, accompanied by his assistant Encik Muhd Raihan Syuwari Bin Haji Rosli.
The purpose of the meeting was to take official measurements for the creation of a specially designed songkok for Tun Pehin Sri, crafted as a gesture of respect and cultural artistry.
Shah Indra, widely recognised in Brunei Darussalam for his mastery of traditional songkok-making, is celebrated for blending heritage techniques with refined, exclusive designs.
His work is regarded as a symbol of Bruneian craftsmanship, combining meticulous detail with cultural pride.
During the session, Tun Pehin Sri expressed his appreciation to Shah Indra for travelling to Sarawak and for his dedication to preserving the art of songkok-making.
He acknowledged the cultural significance of the craft, noting that such artistry represents both tradition and identity for the region.
“The artistic refinement and meticulousness in making songkok is the pride of this region,” Tun Pehin Sri remarked, highlighting the importance of sustaining traditional skills while recognising their modern relevance.
The exchange underscored the strong cultural ties between Sarawak and Brunei, particularly in the preservation of traditional attire and artisanal heritage.
Songkok, a traditional Malay headgear, holds deep cultural meaning across the region, often worn during formal occasions and religious ceremonies.
By commissioning a custom-made songkok from Shah Indra, Sarawak’s Head of State reinforced the value of cultural continuity and the recognition of artisans who dedicate their craft to maintaining heritage.
The collaboration also reflects the broader appreciation of Bruneian artistry within Sarawak’s cultural landscape.
The visit to Petra Jaya highlighted not only the personal respect between the Sarawak ruler and the Bruneian artisan but also the shared commitment to sustaining traditional craftsmanship in Southeast Asia.
