The Pasir Gudang Kite Museum is dedicated to the traditional Malay kite known as the wau. With the aim to preserve and promote the wau as part of the Malaysian craft heritage, this museum showcases the art of kite-making and displays a collection of traditional kites or wau, in spectacular colours and designs.

A lot of effort has to be put in making the kites and wau, and they carry a lot of meanings and stories with them as well.

Lots of Waus on display

For instance, Wau Jalabudi would let out a coarse sound, as it has a big hummer-like material, producing a vibrating element.The name came about from a leaf found in Kedah called the ‘budi’ leaf, as the tail of the wau is similar to the shape, and as the structure of the wau’s tail looks like a ‘jala’ (net), hence it is called Wau Jala Budi.

As many other pretty things, the shape of a woman’s body actually inspired the basic shape and design of Wau Jala Budi. Seen from the back, the hands of the woman is depicted as extended, followed by the figure, heading to the waist and bottom.

Wau Jalabudi

Wau Kucing, on the other hand, would carry out a ‘melodious’, high-pitched sound - like a cat’s mew. The significant of its hummer is that it was believed to be used to frighten away evil spirits and forecast the following day’s weather.

Believed to have come from Sulawesi, Indonesia, Wau Merak is flown mainly by the Bugis people after the paddy harvesting season. Taking in from the shape of a  peacock, Wau Merak’s design consists of a balong (fowl’s crest) and the elaborated tale – with length four times the size of its body.

Wau Merak’s hummer can let out seven different melodies or tunes – made possible as the wau is originally played at night.

The exhibitions

Fancy a clean fight without shedding blood or tears? Then Wau Laga is the perfect tool to compete against one’s opponent. The aim is to break the rival’s strings and strive to bring their kites down onto the ground.  

It is said that Wau Bulan came from the Sri Wijaya Empire, symbolising the reunification of the empire by Dewa Muda. The Design of Wau Bulan as depicted by Dewa Muda was conceptualised based on the form of their forefathers, a saint or a renowned ancient figure deemed as the father of all cultures. With such strong connections with the Royals, playing with the Wau is considered a privilege in the olden days.

Fact - in Japan, Edo Kite is flown over the sky as a mediator between men and God; wishes, prayers and hopes are communicated via the kites.

There is also a collection of modern kites available. Visitors will also enjoy the audio video display relating to the traditional kite, including the making of one. Pasir Gudang is also the site of the acclaimed annual World Kite Festival (Festival Layang-layang).