Locksmith in Malaysia sustains traditional craft
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Poh, a locksmith, moved to Sandakan, Malaysia in 1979 and established a key-cutting business with his wife, Lim Chun Hiong.
The shop provided income for their family and funded their children’s education. Over the years, Poh observed shifts in the locksmith trade, noting a decline in the quality of brass and a rise in the popularity of electronic locks. Despite these changes, Poh continues to cut conventional keys for homes, cars, and motorcycles, charging between RM3 to RM10 per key.
He has adapted to technology, using modern equipment that reduces key-cutting time from 30 minutes to five. However, he still uses a key-cutting machine he purchased from Japan 38 years ago. Poh expressed concern that younger generations lack interest in learning the trade, finding the work physically demanding. While electronic locks and new commercial areas have decreased demand, Poh maintains a loyal customer base.
Selvia Ben, a customer of decades, continues to return to Poh’s shop for all her key-cutting needs, valuing the long-standing relationship. Poh intends to continue his work as long as customers require his services.
