TRASH AND TREASURE

The name Lorong Kulit (Leather Lane) is said to have originated from the many leather traders who once dominated the area. But the leather goods to be found here nowadays – bags, belts, wallets –are really no different from any you would find at a regular pasar malam anywhere in Malaysia. It’s the secondhand items – clothes, shoes, jewellery, watches, household items, electronics, books, CDs and cassettes, ceramics, brassware, tools, toys and all kinds of collectibles and knickknacks – that draw visitors from near and far.

Despite the growing number of vendors who trade in more common everyday goods, such as hardware tools and phone accessories, Lorong Kulit remains synonymous with a flea market in Penang. The draw is still the small-time vendors who spontaneously display their assorted pre-loved merchandise on a ground sheet. Some have a lot – truckloads – to display, others can fit their entire inventory in a shopping bag. Many make an effort to lay out their goods neatly, but a few weren’t bothered to. Some vendors are easy-going and eager, others appear withdrawn or shy.

LEFT_Treasure or trash – you decide! MIDDLE_ Things organised neatly. RIGHT_It’s a mix bag.

As crowds move past, the more affable ones try their best to drum up interest.

Holding out a plastic bag for a customer and chatting to another, one revealed, one seller called out. another urged.

The lively interaction and music from the CD/ thumbdrive vendors give Lorong Kulit a palpitating energy, especially during weekends when all the vendors are out in force and the atmosphere is considerably more festive.