Kemi Bin Khamis: Mah Meri Mask Carver

Place: Sungai Bumbun

Biography:

Kemi Bin Khamis is a Mah Meri mask carver from Sungai Bumbun, Malaysia. He is known for his work in wood, and has been carving masks for many years. His masks are used in prayer rituals and ceremonies by the Mah Meri tribe, and are believed to be imbued with the spirits of their ancestors. Kemi Bin Khamis is proud of his Orang Asli culture and believes in the importance of preserving and sharing his tribe's traditions and stories. He has worked with Universiti Malaya Community Engagement Centre (UMCares) to record and compile Mah Meri mask stories, and has also led mask carving workshops for small groups. His work has been featured in exhibitions and publications, bringing attention to Malaysia's rich cultural heritage.