KUCHING: Sarawak has lost a renowned custodian of its traditional weaving heritage with the death of master weaver Ngot Bi, who was known for preserving the increasingly rare art of Tikar Bergerang.
Ngot, from Kampung Semera, Asajaya, died yesterday (Sept 7) at the age of 94.
Recognised as an Adiguru Kraf Anyaman Tikar Bergerang (Master Craftsman of Tikar Bergerang Weaving) by Kraftangan Malaysia in 2014, she spent decades preserving the intricate weaving technique and passing her knowledge on to younger generations.
Her craftsmanship earned her numerous accolades, including the UNESCO Seal of Excellence and recognition at the Hasanah Gold Threads Awards (HGTA).
She won the Plaiting – Best Traditional category at the HGTA in both 2023 and 2024.
In 2024, she was also presented with the Hasanah Gold Award (Lifetime Achievement Award) in recognition of her exceptional craftsmanship and lifelong dedication to the art.
Tanoti Crafts, in paying tribute to the late master weaver, described her as a custodian of a precious and increasingly endangered weaving tradition of the Sarawak Malay community.
“At Tanoti, we honour Ibu Ngot not only for the beautiful mats she created, but for the knowledge, identity and heritage she carried in her hands.
“As Tikar Bergerang faces the risk of disappearing, her legacy reminds us that preserving heritage means keeping the knowledge alive and passing it forward.
“May her craft continue to speak across generations,” it said in a tribute.
