Pottery is one of the oldest arts in human history. Since the beginning of human existence, there has been a need for nourishment in order to survive. The art of pottery, which has continued from prehistoric times to the present day, emerged from the necessity of storing, transporting, and cooking the food and beverages essential for nourishment. Pottery has made the storage, transportation, and cooking of food more efficient and effective. In addition, pottery, which possesses distinct cultures and traditions in various geographical areas, has also enabled the inhabitants of those regions to create unique artworks that reflect their lifestyles, beliefs, and artistic values. Thus, it holds the significant quality of being a document that reflects the identities and traditions of societies up to the present day. Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, is comprised of 13 states and 3 federal territories. The population of the country, which is highly diverse ethnically and culturally, consists of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has its own traditions, languages, beliefs, and forms of artistic expression, and this diversity is one of the fundamental elements that constitute Malaysia's cultural richness. Pottery is a significant art form that reflects the cultural heritage of these diverse ethnic groups, and Malaysia's traditional pottery tradition is a part of this cultural mosaic. Different ethnic groups produce unique artworks in pottery using distinct techniques, motifs, and patterns.One of these distinctive artworks is Labu Sayong, which is the subject of this study.Labu Sayong is a traditional water container produced in the village of Sayong, located near the city of Kuala Kangsar in the Perak state of Malaysia. In this study, traditional pottery-making in the Perak state of Malaysia and Labu Sayong, a traditional form of pottery, have been examined.
Keywords: Malaysia, Pottery, Labu Sayong, Traditional