Orang Malu is the Indonesian term for the shy man.

It is also known as Yogiman or “weeping buddha” and is associated with shame for the suffering in the world and seeking refuge in meditation.

The Orang Malu statue represents the need for introspection of oneself, one’s own mind, and not the physical world around us.

There are various stories circulating about the history of Orang Malu.

One story says that he assumes the fetal position and presses his forehead with his hands in a pose known to awaken the mystical third eye. Another story says that Orang Malu is in eternal mourning and sorrow after learning of the death of his own son whom he unknowingly killed in battle. Yet, he can be happy deep down in his heart because he has discovered peace and happiness within himself.

According to legend, you should place Orang Malu facing the door. Visitors should stroke his head upon entering so that he takes away any bad thoughts they may have and all visitors enter your home with good intentions.

“If you take good care of your yogiman, he will take away your worries.”

The Orang Malu statue is crafted in Bali, known for its beautiful wood carvings. The area around Ubud is the birthplace of these wooden statues. Various tropical woods are used, such as soarwood, hibiscus, and crocodile wood.