KUCHING: The inaugural BorneoCraft Global Expo and Conference 2024 marks a pivotal step in Sarawak’s mission to establish itself as a leading hub for craft and craft tourism.
Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said he envisions the expo as a launchpad for future initiatives to transform Sarawak into a thriving hub for craftsmanship.
“We hope to see this expo to be built up through the years, to be able to bring together artisans all over the world into Sarawak.
“With this expo, we aim to elevate craft standards while fostering collaboration and innovation among artists, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders.
“Our vision is to create an ecosystem that enhances and promotes the craftsmanship of our local artisans, positioning Sarawak not only as a hub for craft but also as a destination where visitors can engage with our rich culture and take home a piece of our heritage,” he said during the launch of the event held at Kuching Waterfront Esplanade here today.
The event was launched by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and witnessed by Her Royal Highness Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, along with Wan Junaidi’s wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, MTCP Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, and his wife, Datin Melinda Claudia Bucking-Lawan.
Following the launch, Abdul Karim presented a ‘tikar pandan bergerang’, a woven mat crafted by 92-year-old revered master craftsman Adiguru Ngot Bi, as a memento to Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin.
Abdul Karim highlighted the role of craftsmanship in preserving Sarawak’s heritage and identity, which has led to the World Craft Council to acknowledge Kuching city as the ‘International City for Crafts’.
He said craftsmanship was more than creating beautiful artifacts, as it represents Sarawak’s heritage, culture, and unyielding spirit.
He described it as a testament to the region’s rich history and a bridge connecting its past to the future.
“Their (artisans) skills, passed down through generations, carry stories and traditions that define who we are as a people.
“Our aim through the BorneoCraft Global Expo and Conference is not merely to showcase these creations but to provide a platform for our talented artisans to shine on the global stage, to tell their stories, and to inspire others,” he said.
