Why did May Lim start teaching Nyonya manik craft?

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May Lim Began Teaching Nyonya Manik Craft to Preserve the Tradition and Support Single Mothers

May Lim initiated teaching the Nyonya manik craft in 1992, driven by a dual purpose: to prevent the traditional art form from disappearing and to provide a source of supplementary income for single mothers. This endeavor was sparked when Kee Phaik Cheen approached her with the idea of teaching crafts to empower single mothers financially. Lim's decision to focus on manik craft stemmed from a personal desire to ensure its continuity, reflecting her own childhood experiences with the intricate beadwork.
Preservation of a Traditional Art Form

Lim's commitment to Nyonya manik craft is deeply rooted in her desire to safeguard this cultural heritage. She recognized that without active teaching and practice, the intricate skills involved in manik beadwork could be lost to future generations. This motivation led her to engage in teaching, notably through the Penang Heritage Trust's apprenticeship programme for traditional trades, where she dedicated nine years to instructing new artisans. Her efforts ensure that the techniques and aesthetic principles of Nyonya beadwork are passed down.
Empowering Single Mothers Through Skill Development

The inception of Lim's teaching career in this craft was directly linked to an initiative aimed at economic empowerment. Kee Phaik Cheen, then Penang executive councillor for tourism, arts and culture, sought out Lim to teach single mothers crafts like patchwork and blankets to generate additional income. This collaborative effort highlighted the potential of traditional crafts not only as cultural expressions but also as viable means for individuals to improve their economic standing.
Adaptation for Contemporary Relevance

To make the Nyonya manik craft more accessible and appealing to younger demographics, Lim introduced modifications to traditional patterns. She developed simpler, smaller designs, such as a 4cm by 6cm motif, suitable for contemporary items like high-heeled sandals. She also experimented with designs for alphabets on caps to capture the interest of male students during workshops. These adaptations demonstrate her foresight in ensuring the craft's relevance in a changing world.
Ongoing Commitment and Community Support

Even in her later years, Lim continues to teach Nyonya manik shoe beading classes at the State Chinese Penang Association premises. Her classes are structured across three skill levels, guiding students from basic beadwork to mastering traditional patterns. The minimal fees collected from her students are consistently donated to small, lesser-known charities, underscoring her philanthropic spirit and her dedication to both the craft and community welfare.

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Why did May Lim start teaching Nyonya manik craft?

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