KUCHING: Alunan Tukang, the largest arts and crafts market ever featured at the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), officially opened on Friday (June 20), with over 100 artisan booths, 37 workshops, and 14 themed fireside chats.
Curated by Woo Woo Whimsy, Pungu Borneo, and One Sound and Light, Alunan Tukang is designed to promote sustainability, preserve heritage, and encourage inclusive creative expression.
“Alunan Tukang is more than just a market—it’s a platform that empowers our local artisans and creative entrepreneurs.
“Many of our vendors come from family-run businesses and indigenous communities, carrying traditions that have been passed down through generations.
“By participating in an event of this scale, they’re not only gaining exposure to a global audience but also building sustainable income, meaningful networks, and long-term recognition. It’s about celebrating culture while creating real economic opportunities for our communities,” said Alunan Tukang director cum Woo Woo Whimsy managing director Shalane Matthew.
Officiated by Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah with a symbolic ‘congkak’ ritual on Friday (June 20), the market features diverse artisans from Sarawak, other Malaysian states, and abroad.
According to a press release by Woo Woo Whimsy, international exhibitors such as Inca Spirit from Peru are among the participants, alongside support from organisations including Sarawak Energy, Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred), Yayasan Hasanah, Sara Carbon, Sarawak Craft Council, and the Sabah Creative Economy and Innovation Centre (Scenic).
In addition to its marketplace offerings, it said Alunan Tukang features artistic showcases that enrich the festival grounds, including live loom weaving demonstrations by Tanoti and large-scale macramé installations by Made.Kyoot and RBL Rara.
“Visitors enter through a striking hanging bead installation that acts as a symbolic gateway into the vibrant space.”
The atmosphere is further brought to life by Bungan Creative, whose live traditional music and cultural energy set the tone for the experience within.
“Throughout the three-day event, we’re hosting a wide range of interactive sessions—including hands-on workshops and dialogue-driven fireside chats—covering themes such as traditional knowledge, eco-design, and innovation in craft,” it added.
