The gembala, or shepherd, is the series title and central figure of Raja Shahriman’s exploration. For this series, he draws inspiration from the shepherd’s crook or cane - a historical and symbolic object, often signifying rulership, protection and authority. An anthropomorphic bust - characteristic of his style -  is welded and set on top of a simple, staff-like structure, elevating it from the ground. A pair of horns rest on the crown, which Shahriman emphasizes, is harvested from a wild animal instead of livestock. 

Raja Shahriman’s work often touches on larger themes relating to nature, religion, and society through the lens of Malay culture. In his Gembala sculptures and installation, he conveys his concerns regarding the power structures existing both nationally and globally, specifically the crisis of universal leadership by deploying the persona of the shepherd, the iconography of the crook, and juxtaposing both with the skulls of untamed beasts.