82 and in the right frame of mind
Chai Min Chak, an 82-year-old craftsman in Ipoh, continues to hand-make wooden photo frames after six decades in the trade. He remains committed to his traditional techniques despite the prevalence of mass-produced alternatives.
Why it matters
The story highlights the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and the value of artisanal work in a modern, automated economy.
IPOH: Chai Min Chak could have long put down his tools, but after more than six decades of crafting wooden photo frames, the trade remains a part of his life.
At 82, he still has no plans to retire, turning up at his workshop daily, determined to keep the tradition alive for as long as he can.
Chai started making frames at 18 after learning the craft from his elder brother, now 90 and runs a wood factory.
“I still rely heavily on hand tools,” he said, adding that machines are also used alongside traditional techniques to cut, shape and assemble the timber.
Chai said he prefers jelutong wood for its light weight.
After decades of practice, the work comes naturally to him, with a typical frame taking about an hour to make, depending on its size and design, while larger ones can take between five and six hours.
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