JERTIH, July 30 — A carpenter from Kampung Gerai Tua here has turned his passion for breeding bush crickets — locally known as belalang rusa or belalang kerek, a species of grasshopper — into a lucrative side business by crafting custom-made cages for fellow enthusiasts.

Ramli Sulaiman, 62, said he uses his carpentry skills to build grasshopper cages from wood and sago palm stems to meet growing demand from hobbyists across the Besut district.

He said the increasing popularity of kerek grasshopper sound competitions, organised by various community groups, has fuelled demand for quality cages that keep the insects comfortable and in good condition before competitions.

“Wooden cages are priced from RM70 each, depending on the type of timber used, such as jackfruit wood, pine, or baja hutan (wild hardwood).

“Cages made from sago palm stems are sold for between RM20 and RM25 each. They are popular because they are lightweight and easy to carry,” he told Bernama recently.

Ramli said it takes him between two and three days to complete a cage, as he builds them on a part-time basis while continuing his work as a carpenter.

Most of the cages are made to order, although he also sells them at kerek grasshopper competition venues throughout the district.

“The design of the cage is important. It must provide good ventilation, adequate space, and protection from heat and rain to ensure the grasshopper remains active,” he said.

An avid competitor himself, Ramli regularly takes part in kerek grasshopper sound competitions, which have become increasingly popular, particularly in rural communities.

He said such competitions are frequently organised in locations including Kampung Telaga Nibong in Hulu Besut and Kampung Gerai, attracting participants from across the district.

“I have won many competitions over the years. The prizes are not limited to cash but also include items such as pillows, thick blankets, and kitchenware. I kept some for myself, gave some to friends and family, and sold the rest,” he said.

According to Ramli, the competitions not only strengthen camaraderie among enthusiasts but also generate economic opportunities for cage makers, grasshopper feed suppliers, and small traders operating at competition venues.

He hopes the tradition will continue to be preserved, as it is not only a unique cultural pastime but also a source of income for those involved in producing accessories and supplies for the hobby. — Bernama