BALINGIAN/BATANG AI: A community-focused Handicraft Development Programme underscores the commitment of Sarawak Skills and Sarawak Energy Bhd to sustainable development.
The initiative, implemented in Balingian and later expanded to Batang Ai, aims to strengthen traditional weaving skills while promoting long-term economic empowerment among rural artisans.
“This programme reflects our commitment to equipping communities with practical skills, sustainable knowledge, and market-ready capabilities that support long-term livelihoods,” said Sarawak Skills on Friday.
The programme, jointly undertaken by Sarawak Skills and Sarawak Energy Bhd, aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering community resilience through traditional craftsmanship.
First conducted in Balingian from November 5 to 7 and later extended to Batang Ai from November 11 to 13, it involved 40 participants from 15 longhouses, all of whom are active weaving practitioners dedicated to safeguarding their cultural heritage.
“The key objective is to enhance and diversify traditional weaving products beyond conventional mats, introducing modern items such as handbags, laptop sleeves, wallets, pouches and clutches,” it added.
Through hands-on training, participants were introduced to contemporary design trends, branding techniques, and market development strategies.
These skills aim to help rural artisans elevate the quality of their products, expand market reach, and secure sustainable income opportunities.
In line with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, the training emphasised the importance of using eco-friendly, locally sourced materials including rattan, bamboo and bemban.
“These renewable resources promote environmentally responsible production while protecting local biodiversity and reducing reliance on synthetic materials,” the statement said.
From a socioeconomic perspective, the initiative supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by empowering local communities especially women through entrepreneurship development, skills upgrading and sustainable craft innovation.
“The programme reinforces traditional practices while strengthening economic resilience and improving household income stability,” it added.
Over the six training days, participants demonstrated significant improvement in craftsmanship, producing a wide range of handmade products collectively valued at approximately RM12,000.
“This outcome reflects the commercial viability of traditional crafts when supported by structured training and better market exposure,” it said.
The collaboration also embodies SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, showcasing strong inter-organisational cooperation between Sarawak Skills and Sarawak Energy.
The initiative highlights the impact of strategic partnerships in driving rural transformation through transparent, inclusive and community-focused programmes.
