The Art of Songkok Making: A Journey of Heritage and Tradition
A Legacy of Songkok Making
Nur Dalila and her husband Zahedy Zakaria are now at the helm of Butik Songkok Masood Hussin in Muar, Johor. The couple’s journey in songkok making began with a desire to repay the kindness of their grandparents, who founded the business nearly 80 years ago.
A Chance to Repay Kindness
Reflecting on her journey, Dalila shared how her grandmother had asked her to continue the business after her grandfather passed away. "At first, I felt obligated – it was a big decision, but I thought about repaying their kindness. Also, there was no one else in the family who was willing to continue his business," she said.
A Business of Fine Craftsmanship
Established in 1947, Butik Songkok Masood Hussin is renowned for its fine craftsmanship, adding class and exclusivity to its brand of traditional headwear. Dalila’s decision to enter the songkok-making industry in 2002 was met with questions and mixed reactions. "Some people said, ‘Why study so hard if you’re just going to make songkoks?’ But for me, knowledge is important. I want to show that songkoks have their own class."
A Legacy of Songkoks
Masood Hussin songkoks range from RM15 to RM400, with custom-made pieces going for as much as RM3,000. The brand’s products showcase neat stitching that binds soft yet durable fabric. The structure is sturdy to the touch yet comfortable to wear, resistant to creases, and easy to maintain.
A Business of Heritage and Tradition
She believes the brand has carved out its own niche, especially among the younger generation, and she wants every customer to remember the experience of owning a Masood Hussin songkok. "Nowadays, many people come up to me and say, ‘Kak, I’ve never worn a songkok before – can you teach me?’ That’s very satisfying," she said.
A Moment of Pride
The most significant moment of her career was receiving an order from Istana Johor for the coronation of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar in 2015. "We felt so proud because such an event only happens once in a lifetime," Dalila added.
A Business of Passion and Pride
Year after year, she and her husband work tirelessly to fulfil orders. Their songkoks range from RM15 to RM400, with some custom-made pieces reaching RM3,000, depending on special requests and the materials used. High demand, especially during festive seasons, drives sales up to 30,000 units annually.
Conclusion
For Dalila, this business is not just about making a living – it is about preserving the heritage of the songkok in modern society. "Why are branded shoes expensive, while songkoks are looked down upon?" she said. "I want to change that perception. We wear the songkok on our heads, so its prestige should be elevated, too."
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Butik Songkok Masood Hussin?
Butik Songkok Masood Hussin is a traditional headwear brand that offers high-quality songkoks at affordable prices. - What is the history of Butik Songkok Masood Hussin?
The business was founded by Dalila’s grandfather nearly 80 years ago, and it has been passed down through generations. - What makes Butik Songkok Masood Hussin unique?
The brand is renowned for its fine craftsmanship, adding class and exclusivity to its brand of traditional headwear. - How can I purchase a songkok from Butik Songkok Masood Hussin?
You can visit the brand’s boutique in Muar, Johor, or follow them on social media to place an order. - What is the price range of Butik Songkok Masood Hussin’s songkoks?
The brand’s songkoks range from RM15 to RM3,000, depending on the materials used and the level of customization.
Contact Information
Butik Songkok Masood Hussin
24, Jalan Majidi,
Taman Sri Tanjung,
84000 Muar, Johor
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