Wayang kulit is among the traditional heritage arts that is gradually fading, and it would not be surprising if one day this shadow theatre, once immensely popular in the east coast, northern and southern regions of the country, becomes merely a footnote in the nation’s historical records.

The final instalment of this four-part special report looks at experts’ views on how the traditional art can survive and remain relevant in the future.

The story of a Kelantan Peranakan Chinese family preserving the heritage of wayang kulit, the meticulous work of a craftsman bringing characters to life from pieces of cowhide, and the determination of a 10-year-old child to become the next generation of practitioners are proof that the traditional art is still alive.