KUCHING: Sarawak plans to elevate the World Eco-Fiber and Textile (WEFT) Forum into a larger global platform after this year’s participation.
The 2025 edition, which welcomed delegates from 20 countries, demonstrated strong international interest in eco-fiber and textile heritage.
“Building on this momentum, the state is laying groundwork to grow the event into a more expansive, internationally recognised showcase in future years,” said Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He said this in his speech during the forum at Dewan Sri Mahligai here today.
“We look forward to better coordination and communication to bring a larger event and extend a grand welcome for attendees. We will not take the shine out of you, and the ministry is there to back you.”
He commended Society Atelier Sarawak for its long-standing commitment to promoting Sarawak crafts, emphasising that the organisation has sustained the WEFT Forum for 24 years, making it one of the State’s most established cultural platforms.
Abdul Karim said this continued leadership has helped ensure Sarawak crafts receive growing regional and global recognition.
He noted that the passing of the Sarawak Craft Council Ordinance last year has sparked renewed energy across several craft traditions.
“These developments include Penan basketry collaborations with agencies and non-government organisations, creative revitalisation of Malay songket and keringkam weaving, and the increasing popularity of Orang Ulu beadwork among contemporary designers,” he added.
Abdul Karim also highlighted Society Atelier Sarawak’s newly signed memorandum of understanding with the Wickerwork Association of Linshu, China, describing it as an important step toward expanding international cooperation in craft design, knowledge exchange, and market access.
He welcomed the participation of the ASEAN Handicraft Promotion and Development Association, and the Asia-Pacific Craft Alliance, expressing optimism that WEFT 2025 will catalyse further collaborations across the region.
He revealed that Sarawak crafts were exhibited at the prestigious Revelations Biennale in Paris, France, earlier this year, and expressed hope for participation in Revelations Shanghai next year.
Looking ahead, he announced plans for a multi-storey Sarawak Crafts Centre to be built in central Kuching, with completion expected within two years.
He expressed confidence that the building could host the 13th WEFT Biennial once completed.
