Ipoh craftsman, 82, still framing photos after six decades

Chai Min Chak, an 82-year-old craftsman in Ipoh, continues making wooden photo frames daily after over six decades, with no plans to retire and a determination to preserve his trade. Chai began the craft at 18, learning from his elder brother, and still relies heavily on hand tools alongside machines. He prefers jelutong wood, completing typical frames in about an hour, with larger ones taking up to six hours. His customers include families seeking custom frames for special occasions and businesses displaying landscapes or religious images. Despite mass-produced options, many prefer his made-to-size products, which also include glazing and mirrors.