Fascinating Handicrafts Galore  Malaysia boasts a delightful
variety of traditional handicrafts. Choices range from priceless
authentic antiques to exquisite modern hand-made crafts.  As
most artisans are Muslims, Malaysian handicraft designs are
heavily influenced by Islam. The religion prohibits the
depiction of the human form in art. Hence, most designs are
based on natural elements such as the interlacing of leaves or
vines, flowers and animals.   Popular items of traditional
design include Perak's labu sayong, geluk, belanga, Chinese
dragon kiln ceramics and Sarawakian tribal motif pottery.
Contemporary items include vases, flower pots, decorative
pottery, sculpture and kitchenware.  Labu Sayong  Labu Sayong is
a black-coloured gourd-shaped clay jar typically used to store
and cool water. The state of Perak is renowned for this type of
pottery.   Found in many rural Malaysian homes, the belanga is
often characterised by a round base and wide rim. It is often
used to cook curries, as it is believed that i