Behind the Face Paint & Balloon Animals: Meet the Malaysian Woman Finding Joy Working as a Clown

Most people spend years searching for a career that truly makes them happy. While some find it in offices or businesses, one Malaysian woman found hers through balloons, face paint, and laughter. 

Working as a clown may not be the most conventional job, but for her, it’s a career that brings joy not only to others, but to herself too.

Encouragement from loved ones

For Bunga, it all started with her husband’s encouragement. Initially, she took on a part-time job taking orders for balloon flower bouquets. It was from there that her husband noticed her talent.

Image Credit: Provided to Rojak Daily

“My husband then encouraged me to try stepping into the world of clowning. That’s when I began practising making balloon animals before performing at events. Then, I started sharpening my skills while promoting myself during busking sessions.”

Bunga also credited her start in the clown industry to senior clowns she met along the way. According to her, everyone was very encouraging and helped her tremendously in improving herself.

When asked how her family reacted when she first decided to become a clown, Bunga admitted they were a bit shocked, considering the job isn’t typically associated with women. Nevertheless, they gave her their blessing and were excited for her new chapter in life.

Juggling two worlds

Despite her dedication to clowning, it is not Bunga’s primary source of income. During weekdays, she works in the private sector and only performs as a clown on weekends.

According to Bunga, she does not have fixed locations for her performances, but she is primarily active in the Klang Valley. Additionally, she travels to other locations when invited.

Image Credit: Provided to Rojak Daily

Reflecting on her journey, Bunga shared one of the most memorable experiences she has had as a clown. It happened during one of her live sessions on TikTok, where she received a comment about a balloon animal she had made.

“The woman said her child loved the balloon animal so much that they even brought it to sleep. When the balloon burst, the child cried so much."

She shared, "Another individual later stepped up and said they would buy the child another balloon animal if they came to collect it from me.”

However, fate had other plans.

Two days before the meeting, Bunga was unfortunately involved in an accident that left her with a broken wrist, forcing her to take a long break and preventing her from fulfilling the wish.

As with any job or passion, obstacles are inevitable. Bunga said her profession comes with its own challenges, but for her, it is about constantly pushing herself to improve her skills and expand her knowledge of clowning.

“No matter what role we play, give it the best you’ve got.”

When asked what the future holds, Bunga revealed that she dreams of becoming a full-time clown, possibly working alongside her husband and children. For now, however, she is content with her current arrangement.

Image Credit: Provided to Rojak Daily

“Maybe in the future, when I’m no longer tied to working for someone else, I would become a clown full-time, perhaps with my husband and children too. I hope to share my knowledge of the clowning world with them," she said.

For other women in similarly unconventional roles, Bunga offers a quiet note of encouragement based on her own experience.

“No matter what role we play, give it your best. No matter your gender, show others your best example, as that reflects who you are.”

If you want to support Bunga and learn more about her work, check out her TikTok.

Featured Image Credit: Provided to Rojak Daily