Eyo Hock Seng is dedicating his life to preserving the traditional shadow-puppet art of wayang kulit in Malaysia [1].

The effort represents a critical attempt to save a centuries-old cultural practice from disappearing in a modernizing society. By passing the craft to a new generation, the master puppeteer aims to maintain the artistic heritage of the Pasir Mas district in Kelantan [1, 2].

Hock Seng, also known as Pak Cu, is 71 years old [1]. He has practiced the art for over six decades [2]. His journey into the craft began at the age of 12 [2].

Wayang kulit is a complex performance art involving intricate puppets and storytelling. Hock Seng has spent more than 60 years mastering these techniques [2]. To ensure the tradition does not die with his generation, he is currently teaching the craft to his grandson [1, 2].

The practice of wayang kulit is deeply rooted in the state of Kelantan [1]. While the art form is traditional, Hock Seng's role as a Chinese puppeteer highlights the cross-cultural nature of the craft's preservation in the region [1, 2].

Maintaining such a tradition requires years of disciplined study. The process involves not only the manipulation of puppets, but also the mastery of the narratives that define the art form [1]. By training his grandson, Hock Seng is creating a direct lineage of knowledge to protect the craft from extinction [2].

“Eyo Hock Seng is dedicating his life to preserving the traditional shadow-puppet art of wayang kulit in Malaysia”

The dedication of Eyo Hock Seng illustrates the fragility of intangible cultural heritage. As traditional arts face pressure from globalization and shifting interests, the survival of wayang kulit depends on individual masters who are willing to mentor younger generations, regardless of ethnic background.