Deputy Premier stresses strategic planning, youth engagement in ‘Craft Sarawak’

KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has highlighted the importance of incorporating strategic planning that aligns with market trends, customer preferences, and the evolving needs of the craft industry in shaping the future of “Craft Sarawak”.
Uggah made these remarks during his speech at the closing ceremony of The Iban Women Charitable Fund Handicraft Competition here.
“We have two agencies – the Malaysia Handicraft Development Corporation and Sarawak Craft Council, in organising community craft development programmes.
“This way, we can nurture young and skilled entrepreneurs who can leverage modern technology to create internationally competitive products.”
He also encouraged local youths to take an interest in and learn traditional Iban craft-making techniques, preserving and passing down cultural heritage.
He suggested that Iban craft products should be registered through the National Heritage Department to safeguard their intellectual property rights.
Uggah underscored the importance of maintaining craft inventories as a means of protecting cultural heritage and promoting artisanal traditions.
During the event, he announced a contribution of RM50,000 to the Iban Women Charitable Trust for their upcoming event in the next year.
He expressed his hope that more members of the Iban community would participate in competitions like this, ensuring the preservation of crafts and culture for future generations.