Uncle Lee - the oldest person in Muda Lane, Penang Traditional Joss Stick Maker.

One fine afternoon, Uncle Lee approached me to take a photo together for his memories. I could see he was very proud and happy that I have appreciated his gift very much, The gifts were two very beautiful and meaningful Chinese stick couplets attached to both sides of the door on the main facade and a Chinese couplet signboard above the main door. 


Uncle Lee is a great man. He is the oldest man in Muda Lane. He spent all his life making handmade joss stick from sandalwood imported from India and Australia.  A documentary was produced by Astro Channel 551 on August 29th. 2009, featuring Mr Lee and his vanishing craftmanship on making joss sticks. Not many are keen to pick up this traditional craftmanship as their livelihood because the returns are not attractive. For Mr Lee "his work doesn't bring him fame or financial promise. To him, it is a way of living. Mr Lee is highly regarded,  "a heritage and a legacy" explained the director. He does not rely on this trade to earn a living anymore but more to exhibit skills to visitors and to keep the tradition alive. His desire (together with his wife) for the meantime is to continue making joss stocks as long as time permit.