In Malaysia, you can still find the Penyapu Lidi or Palm Ekel Broom stick which is made from the rib of the coconut leaf, though it is slowly being phased out. I was pleasantly surprised to see the penyapu lidi being sold at the Farmer's Market during one of my recent visits. It is quite cheap, RM2 for one. This type of broom is suitable to be used in the garden or the house compound.
I have mentioned before that there are some people who believe that this type of broom can be used to sweep away evil spirits. However, the broom must be used and cannot be brand new. If not it won't work. There are also some village folk (and the superstitious townfolk) who'd place the penyapu lidi against the back door to prevent burglars from entering the house.
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