KUALA LUMPUR: An appreciation ceremony was held at the National Textile Museum earlier this month to commemorate the late Professor Sulaiman Ghani and his contributions to the textile and traditional garments industry,.
Present at the ceremony were Sulaiman’s close family members, friends and a host of textile collectors.
Stepping into the gallery, one would feel embraced by the warmth of his passion and love for textile, which was translated into his textile collection currently being showcased on the second floor of the museum.
During the ceremony, the National Museums Department screened a short documentary honouring Sulaiman and his efforts towards preserving batik, tenun and songket.
The showcase of a humble legend — who also extended his passion into helping inmates across Malaysia acquire skills in batik, tenun and songket-making — brought many a guest to tears.
Sulaiman’s brother, Mohd Razib Abdul Ghani, who appeared in the video, shared his experience of being taught by Sulaiman in the craft.
“I never knew that I had any talent in making batik, tenun and songket.
“Sulaiman taught me, and showed me my talent.
“He wanted to keep this legacy alive, as it was passed down by our grandfather. Up to this day, I am amazed by his passion.”
Also interviewed in the video were prison officers who worked closely with Sulaiman in his project to train inmates in batik, tenun and songket-making.
At the beginning of the endeavour, Sulaiman intended to help inmates learn self-therapy apart from acquiring skills that could land them jobs after they leave prisons.
Malaysian Prisons Department director Datuk Zulkifli Omar said his presence during classes with the inmates brought them joy.
“Our inmates have become more patient, focused and content after learning new skills.”
Sulaiman’s textile collection is on exhibition at the National Textile Museum until Dec 24.
A total of 113 pieces were gifted by Sulaiman’s family to the National Museums Department, 46 of which are currently exhibited.