Traditional Malaysian Kites

Kite flying has been a popular past-time in Malaysia for centuries.  In fact the country continues to honor this traditional pastime by hosting various annual kite flying festivals like the International Kite Festival at Pasir Gudang, Johor, the Borneo International Kites Festival and the Putrajaya Kite Festival
‘Wau’ is the term used to describe a traditional Malay kite. The reason why this term is used is due to that the fact the shape of the wing of a Malaysian kite said to be similar to an Arabic letter, which is pronounced as “wow”.  The wau exists in various shapes and it is not unusual to find a fish, bird, or frog-shaped wau, but the most popular wau is the wau bulan or moon kite called so because of its curved, crescent-shaped tail.
Listed below are some common traditional Wau :--
Wau Bulan
The Wau Bulan or the Moon Kite with the curved, crescent-shaped tail is believed to have originated in the state of Kelantan.  The kite which today is counted amongst Malaysia’s national symbols is traditionally flown by men in Kelantan.  The Wau Bulan which usually measures 2.5 meters (8 feet) in width and 3.5 meters (11 feet) in height is also bigger than most other kites. The Wau Bulan is typically decorated with large, strong-colored patterns which are easily visible from a height.
Wau Jala Budi
The structure of the Wau Jala Budi is believed to have been inspired by the shape of a woman’s body. The tail of the kite is however fashioned on the budi leaf, found in Kedah. The term ‘Jala’ which means net in Malay refers to net-like structure of the tail of this kite. When flown this kite emits a buzzing drone from the hummer located on the head of the kite.
Wau Kuching
Wau Kucing is also believed to have been invented in Kelantan. The design of the Wau Kucing resembles a feline and this apparent when viewing the kite from behind. The kite emits a screeching, high-pitched sound when flown. The corporate logo of Malaysia’s national carrier, MAS has been inspired by the structure of the Wau Kuching.
Wau Merak
Wau Merak is believed to have originated from the Sulawesi province of Indonesia where it is traditionally flown by the Bugis people after paddy harvesting season. In Malaysia, it is commonly seen in the southern province of Johor.
The design of the Wau Merak is said to have been inspired by a peacock, with a center half that is shaped like the crest of a fowl and a long tail that is approximately four times the length of the body of the kite. The tail of this kite is usually made of wool. The specialty of this Wau is its hummer which emits seven diverse sounds.