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Made of solid teak and inspired by the organic, sleek lines of Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian furniture, the Pak Awang chair typically comes with curved armrests, tapered legs, a spindle backrest and removable cushions.
Malay TV Show: Pak Awang Temberang
The seat got its name when it was popularised by the 1960s local Malay TV sitcom Pak Awang Temberang (“Mr Awang’s Antics”), which featured the chairs in the living room set.
The show was such a hit, it spun off a furniture trend in Malay homes. Back then, newlyweds would have a set custom-made by local Shanghainese craftsmen for their first homes.
A refurbished Pak Awang sofa set by Wee's Collection
Pak Awang Sofa Set
A full set consisted of a three-seater sofa, two armchairs, a coffee table and two side tables.
“People liked the Pak Awang chair because it looked light, modern and fit well into small HDB flats. It was also very practical as the cushion covers could be removed and washed,” said Sharifah Maznah Syed Omar, who owns vintage furniture shop Second Charm.
In its heyday, this seat was such a mainstay that many shops sold pre-packed cushion cover sets, especially during festive occasions such as Hari Raya and Chinese New Year.
Pak Awang chairs are available at Second Charm, Block 21 Kallang Avenue, Mapletree Industrial Building, #05-165. Tel: 6294-2919.