SELANGAU: The Iban community’s Kain Karap weaving heritage is entering a new phase, where it is not only preserved but also developed as a potential source of income for the local community.
Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai said traditional skills must be transformed into sustainable economic activities.
He stressed that the skills acquired should be applied seriously and consistently to help boost income.
“Do not just make it as a side activity. If pursued consistently, these high-quality woven products are capable of penetrating a wider market,” he said at the closing ceremony for the Kain Karap Weaving Workshop Series at Rh Suli, Lubok Bukut Asal recently.
He also encouraged participants to utilise digital platforms and social media as promotional mediums to expand market reach in line with current economic developments.
The workshop, jointly organised by the Lubok Bukut Proactive Youth Club, Iban Women Charitable Trust (IWCT), and Rh Suli JKKK, attracted 17 participants, the majority of whom were women.
Beyond preserving cultural identity, the active involvement of women in the weaving field also opens doors to family economic empowerment through the production of high-value craft products.
