Kopivosian and Hello, readers!
Meet Sabahan artisan Darell Wong, a creative entrepreneur who turned a lockdown hobby into My Little Concrete.
In an inspiring conversation with Darell below, we discover his creative venture blending cement, culture, and craftsmanship, some of which were inspired by Sabah’s landmarks and wildlife!
Hi Darell, could you share with us the story behind ‘My Little Concrete’ and what inspired its creation?
Hi, sure. ‘My Little Concrete’ is where I craft small items from cement.
When did you acquire the skills for this art form, and how long have you been cultivating this passion?
I began during the Movement Control Order (MCO), so it’s been nearly four years.
What obstacles have you encountered while managing My Little Concrete, and how did you navigate them?
When I launched My Little Concrete during the MCO, my initial focus was on creating pots and vases for plants. However, as the MCO restrictions eased, the demand for these items lessened as people ventured out to explore other options.
This prompted me to think, ‘Why not create something that ties into tourism and decor?’ I started to delve into new ideas, utilising technology like a 3D printer. With my architectural background, I leveraged my design experience to innovate.
Are you pursuing this craft full-time, or is it a side job?
Currently, I am fully dedicated to this venture.
What motivated you to collaborate with Kadaiku? Can you tell us about the products you offer there?
I chose Kadaiku to connect with the tourism sector, aiming to attract visitors. I select products that represent Sabah, such as the Mount Kinabalu replica and local wildlife magnets like the Proboscis Monkey and Orangutans. For the Proboscis Monkey, I start with a sketch, and once I have a clear vision of its shape, I mold it with clay to the right dimensions. After creating the original form, I make a silicone mold and finally use cement for the finishing touches.
Do you have a success story that marked a turning point in My Little Concrete’s journey?
Yes, the Mount Kinabalu piece stands out, as no one in Sabah had previously worked with cement in this way. I was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelmingly positive feedback!
What advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the art community?
Follow your passion. For me, everything I create is rooted in my love for the craft.
Explore Darrel’s Creations at Kadaiku!
Today, Kadaiku proudly showcases Darell’s creations, including the iconic Mount Kinabalu replica and unique fridge magnets—each piece telling the story of a visionary Sabahan who transforms his talent into keepsakes for tourists and locals alike, offering a tangible piece of Sabah to bring home.
Share this with someone who appreciates meaningful craftsmanship and the stories behind local art. And If there are any local artists you’d love to learn more about, let us know—we’re always excited to discover and share more Sabahan talent.
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @hellosabahmy and @kadaikutm for more inspiring content from Sabah!
