KUCHING: The Kuching Waterfront has transformed into a vibrant hub of Malaysian craftsmanship with the Borneo Craft Festival (FKB) Sarawak 2024 showcasing the work of a unique blend local artisans.
Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Kraftangan Malaysia), the festival celebrates the theme ‘This is Malaysian Craft’ in conjunction with the Sarawak Regatta and the Kuching Waterfront Festival 2024.
From batik soft toys, traditional accessories to woven mats and rattan bags, the 10-day festival, running from Oct 25 allows visitors to explore the heart and soul of Malaysian crafts.
It features 112 craft entrepreneurs and 14 craft communities, many from the Craft Community Development Project (PPKK) and the event supports local entrepreneurs, particularly youth, the underprivileged, and people with disabilities.
One of the festival’s notable artisans is Mohd Firdaus Kamaruzzaman of JM JarumMas who is affectionately known as ‘Abang Kucing’.
The 35-year-old entrepreneur from Johor has made a name for himself with his whimsical line of cat-shaped soft toys made from clay batik fabrics.
“Our signature product, these soft toys, is why we are known as cat makers.
“This is because our cats have various uses, one of which we usually bring is a model called a desktop wrist rest, which received recognition from the Malaysia Design Council for the Best Design Award in 2021,” he said.
This year, he has introduced a new crocodile-themed creation, resonating with Sarawak’s cultural identity.
His products, priced between RM40 and RM70, are not only visually appealing but also durable and washable, thus receiving positive feedback from customers.
Firdaus draws inspiration from his love for cats, 20 of which he cares for at home.
“The idea came from my own cats, which is why I’m known as Abang Kucing,” he shared, adding that his creations are a tribute to his love for animals and Malaysian batik.
Meanwhile Lumat Lebong of SLDC Handicraft, hailing from Serian, shares a deep connection with her craft, having learned the art of weaving from her mother and grandmother.
“I started with woven products like bemban and bamboo, creating traditional items used in the village,” she said.
Lumat’s products range from RM3 for smaller items to over RM1,000 for intricate mats, showcasing the value of craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Her work embodies a sustainable approach, as she harvests, processes, and weaves every item herself, creating a full-circle connection with nature.
“My products are made from the forest, from A to Z,” she said.
Haliza Abdullah of Q’ra Enterprise has been meanwhile garnering attention for her unique sewn products.
Using natural forest materials like rattan, bamboo, and bemban, she crafts bags priced between RM10 and RM350, with plans for expansion and custom orders on the horizon.
“The passion grew in my heart, and now I want to expand this into a successful business,” she said.
In addition, from Kampung Datu, Mukah, Julaihi Hassan of Anggun Handicraft and Souvenirs, a 68-year-old artisan adds a unique flavour to the festival with his exotic food-inspired crafts.
“The ‘ulat mulung’ is a type of food linked to the Melanau community and is made from the sago palm,” he said, showcasing his knowledge of traditional crafts that incorporate local ingredients and materials.
His wood-based souvenirs, which start at RM10 to RM1,650 for more intricate pieces, are crafted from a variety of woods, including imported options for added aesthetic appeal.
Julaihi expressed appreciation for the festival organisers, noting the support received for accommodation, transportation, and meals, which allows artisans to focus on showcasing their crafts.
