IPOH: Chinese New Year celebrations are only two weeks away and Teh Wing Liang has been making preparations.
At this time of year, he usually receives increased orders to make lion and dragon heads, as well as outfits used in traditional Chinese dances performed during the festive period, and auspicious occasions.
But not this year. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 46-year-old's business has seen a 50 per cent drop in orders.
Despite the drop, he nevertheless continues receiving orders from countries such as Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Kingdom.
"With the announcement of the Movement Control Order (MCO) by the government in almost every state now, orders have declined (locally).
"Open houses and house visits probably would not be allowed during this year's celebration and the lion and dragon dances would have to take a break.
"But, those who had placed orders before the MCO, especially from Chinese associations, they have collected the items," he said when met at his workshop in Taman Melor, Pasir Pinji here.
Teh said a set of lion outfits, inclusive of the head and body, is priced between RM2,600 and RM3,500; while a dragon headset can fetch between RM5,500 and RM6,200.
The father of three said that he learnt the art of making lion and dragon heads at the age of 15 when he was studying at Shen Jai High School, an independent school here.
"I joined the school's lion dance and learnt on my own how to repair damaged lion heads.
"After completing my secondary education, I decided to turn my skills into a career. I have been seriously involved in this business since 1986," said Teh, adding that making the head costumes involves intricate processes.
Teh said he uses rattan, bamboo, paper and cloth to make the framework and it takes him between five and seven days to make either one lion or dragon head.
Following fewer orders this year, Teh said he had the time to make decorative items for companies and eateries as well.
"In previous years, I ended up bringing some of my work back home to ensure orders are completed. This year, I don't have to think about it. I can instead indulge in drawing Chinese Gods," he added.
The 2021 Chinese New Year celebrates the Year of the Ox, which is the second of the 12-year periodic sequence of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar.