KUCHING: Sarawak craft goes digital with e-commerce platform Saratage (saratage.my) to further promote the state’s heritage products.
The website, developed and designed by the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) Commercial, was launched by Malaysia’ Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah at a Malaysia crafts exhibition held in conjunction with the annual London Craft Week at the Malaysian High Commission in London on Sunday (May 7).
With the launch, Sarawak once again reinforced its commitment to spur economic growth for Sarawakian entrepreneurs, artisans and craftsmen through the digital economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abg Johari Tun Openg who led the Sarawak delegation to the London Craft Week, expressed his honour to present and showcase the state’s traditional crafts to an international audience at the annual exhibition.
He stated that the event which has the full support of the Sarawak government, is an initiative that aligns with Sarawak’s efforts to promote the region’s visibility as a ‘World Craft City’ and tell the stories of Malaysians through the language of craft.
“The patronage of Raja Permaisuri Agong has given our talented artisans the chance to demonstrate their skills and raise awareness of Sarawak’s distinctive identity.
“Through our talented artisans, Sarawak’s exceptional crafts and rich cultural heritage take centrestage with a live demonstration of Pua Kumbu, Keringkam, weaving and beadwork. We aim to showcase Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
“I believe such an event will be an excellent platform for our artisans to share their stories and showcase their craftsmanship to the world and at the same time help create a sustainable income that not only benefits the artisans but also the local economy,” he said.
Commenting on the online platform, Abang Johari stressed that the locally developed Saratage website by CENTEXS Commercial is the state’s commitment to bringing the world to Sarawak via digital platforms and will open new markets for its local craftsmen and entrepreneurs.
“The online platform will allow users to discover, learn about and buy traditional Sarawakian crafts on the online marketplace.
“It is part of the Sarawak government’s initiative to promote entrepreneurship amongst Sarawak craftsmen and entrepreneurs who would be able to potentially generate an income of RM2,000 to RM3,000 monthly.
“Moreover, by making purchases from Saratage, customers from all over the world can purchase from local vendors and contribute to the ongoing effort to preserve Sarawak’s unique cultural identity. A Saratage app will be available before the end of the year,” he said.
Also present was the wife of the head of state Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib; the Premier’s wife Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang; Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and his wife Datin Seri Zuraini Abd Jabbar and several other dignitaries.
