In the heart of Kuala Selangor stands a humble yet iconic establishment : KS Pottery. For over a century, this family-run business has quietly shaped a legacy in clay, forming not just pots and lamps, but also the foundation of cultural preservation in Malaysia. Today, that legacy continues under the care and commitment of fourth-generation potter Ananth Arumugam.
Established around 1910 by Ananth’s great-grandfather, the craft of pottery was passed down through generations from his grandfather Perumal to his father Arumugam, and now to Ananth himself. What began as a small initiative has now grown into one of Malaysia’s most recognised names in traditional clay pottery.
While Ananth holds a bachelor’s degree in international business, his hands bear thick calluses, evidence of his deep-rooted connection to the earth and the craft he inherited. He first began learning the art of pot-making at the tender age of 11. Despite pursuing academics, his heart always remained close to the kiln.
He recalls how, during his childhood, he was often teased and called ‘satti’ - a colloquial term for clay pot. What was once mockery eventually became a powerful source of motivation. Though he initially stepped into other career avenues, life had other plans. The turning point came when he realised that the skills were already in his hands, and the guidance he needed was right at home. His father, the only one among his siblings to carry forward the pottery tradition, became his mentor.
Taking over the business in 2015, Ananth brought with him not only a renewed passion but also a modern vision. The name KS Pottery, inspired by Kuala Selangor, is now associated with both heritage and innovation. The business today offers over 30 to 50 types of clay-based products from agal vilakku and nei vilakku to mocha vilakku and steaming pots. During the festive season of Pongal alone, KS Pottery manufactures nearly 60,000 clay pots making it one of the largest producers of Pongal pots in the country.
The process of creating a single vilakku might only take a few seconds in skilled hands, but the behind-the-scenes effort is immense. Each piece of clay is carefully prepared - cleaned of roots, ants, and unwanted elements before being dried and fired in a kiln for several hours. The end result is a piece of art that holds tradition, functionality, and soul.
KS Pottery’s reach has expanded beyond Malaysia, with shipments regularly sent to Singapore, Brunei, and Indonesia. The shop also produces high-value items, with prices ranging from just 20 cents to as much as RM10,000, depending on size, design, and complexity.
One of the reasons clay pots are regaining popularity is due to their numerous health and culinary benefits. According to Ananth, dishes like curry taste better even with minimal effort when cooked in clay pots. Storing water in these pots helps balance alkaline levels and acts as a natural purifier. Interestingly, batter for thosai or idly ferments naturally in clay pots without the need for added yeast.
Ananth is particularly proud that the younger generation is slowly shifting their perception of traditional cooking methods. He believes that more people are beginning to appreciate the natural, eco-friendly benefits of clay cookware in this modern age.
Beyond pottery, Ananth is a firm believer in dignity for all forms of labour. Whether it’s a potter, a sculptor, or even a garbage collector, every profession deserves respect. He reminds us that earning an honest living through hard work is always worthy of dignity.
His message to aspiring youth is simple yet powerful: learn a skill thoroughly and pursue a business that aligns with your passion. With hard work and dedication, no venture is too small or too old-fashioned to succeed.
Ananth’s story is more than a tale of legacy; it is a strength of tradition, the value of skilled craftsmanship, and the importance of respecting one’s roots. Through KS Pottery, he isn’t just preserving a family trade, he’s inspiring a movement that honours the earth, culture, and human touch.