KUCHING, Feb 6: Sarawak is looking to elevate its crafts industry by drawing inspiration from Indonesia’s successful integration of traditional crafts into heritage tourism.
According to a statement today, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah led a Sarawak delegation to the Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair (INACRAFT 2025) to study Indonesia’s thriving handicraft sector and underlying mechanisms of its success.
“Indonesia has established itself as a global leader in traditional crafts, with a well-developed ecosystem that supports artisans through government policies, funding, and industry associations.
“The Sarawak delegation sought insights into how Indonesian authorities and craft organizations provide technical training, market access, and financial support to artisans, ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of the industry in the global marketplace,” the statement said.
The delegation also studied how Indonesia integrates heritage and contemporary design to appeal to both local and international markets.
“By visiting key exhibition booths and engaging with Indonesian artisans, the Sarawak representatives gained firsthand knowledge of innovative production techniques, sustainable material sourcing, and branding strategies,” the statement added.
The Sarawak delegation also sought to strengthen bilateral ties with Indonesia in the fields of arts and crafts via engagement with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Exporters and Producers of Indonesian Handicraft, and provincial craft councils from Yogyakarta, Bali, and Kalimantan.
“These engagements explored potential collaborations, including artist exchanges, joint exhibitions and cross-border market access,” the statement said.
Held at the Jakarta Convention Center from February 5 to 9, 2025, INACRAFT is one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most prestigious craft exhibitions, attracting global buyers and artisans.
Also present during the trip were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, and Sarawak Craft Council manager, Suriya Charles. – TVS
