Unique Hobbies Around South East Asia

A. Maya, the Kite Maker

Maya is a 12-year-old girl from Thailand who has developed a passion for kite making. In her village, there is a long-standing tradition of flying kites during the windy season, known as “Boon Khao Phansa.” Maya spends her afternoons crafting beautiful kites out of vibrant paper and bamboo. She enjoys painting them with intricate designs that reflect the local culture, such as elephants and lotus flowers. Every year, she eagerly participates in the annual kite festival, where she competes against others to see whose kite can fly the highest. This unique hobby not only allows her to express her creativity but also connects her to her cultural heritage.

B. Amir, the Bird Whisperer

Amir is a 13-year-old boy from Malaysia who has an unusual hobby—he is a bird whisperer. He spends countless hours observing and interacting with different birds in his local park. With patience and care, Amir has learned how to communicate with various species, especially the magpie-robin, which is known for its melodious song. He has even created a blog where he shares tips on how to attract birds and build homemade bird feeders. Amir's friends find his talent fascinating, and they often join him to learn about the birds. This hobby has not only deepened Amir’s love for nature but has also encouraged him to advocate for wildlife conservation.

C. Siti, the Traditional Dancer

Siti, a vibrant 11-year-old from Indonesia, has a unique hobby that showcases her country’s rich cultural history—traditional dance. She has been taking lessons since she was five and loves performing at local festivals. Siti wears colourful costumes adorned with intricate patterns and accessories that represent various Indonesian cultures. Her favourite dance is the “Saman,” which requires quick movements and teamwork. Through this hobby, Siti has made many friends and learned about her ancestry, fostering a deep appreciation for her cultural roots. She dreams of one day performing on international stages to share the beauty of Indonesian dance with the world.

D. Rani, the Nature Sculptor

Rani is a 12-year-old girl from the Philippines who has a distinctive hobby—creating sculptures from natural materials. Living close to the lush forests of Mindanao, she gathers twigs, leaves, and stones to craft intricate sculptures of animals like tigers and birds. Rani believes that nature provides the best materials for her art and often spends weekends exploring the forest for inspiration. Her sculptures have attracted the attention of local art enthusiasts, and she has even held a small exhibition in her community. Through her unique hobby, Rani not only nurtures her artistic skills but also promotes environmental awareness among her peers.