What are the purposes of Joss sticks?
Joss sticks are a type of incense. They are traditionally burned before an Asian religious image, idol, buddha statue, or shrine.
Joss sticks are usually made from a mixture of joss wood dust, which can come from natural materials such as wild cinnamon tree. Large joss sticks are usually made from joss wood dust that are mixed with water, creating a dough which is rolled out and layered on a wooden stick.
In modern days, the burning of joss sticks can be used for any reason, like making the smell of a room better or lighting fireworks up during the festive seasons. Sometime, it is believed to be able to magnetize good luck, good health and wealth.
Road Trip to Penang, Georgetown
We came across this unassuming shophouse while visiting the nearby temple. It was then we met Mr. Lee Beng Chua who is one of the oldest Joss stick makers and the last of his kind in Malaysia.
Mr. Lee's joss stick shop has been around for over 80 years, and he personally makes all of his joss sticks by hand. He's one of the oldest makers in Malaysia and is known for using natural ingredients such as palm hearts, parched rice and sandalwood. Mr Lee doesn't use plastic or synthetic materials because it is not good for people's health after being exposed to sunlight for many years.
He knows that his retirement might signal the end of handmade joss stick making in Georgetown, so he is determined not to stop. He will often shares his skills and knowledge with willing students and tourists who come to his shop.
The alley beside his shop in Penang
Mr. Lee is showing how to make incense to my colleague's children.
Legacy
Incense for different purposes.
The world oldest joss sticker maker, the last of his kind in Asia.
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