Local artists earn Asia Pacific craft masters

KUCHING: Sarawak’s Pua Kumbu master weaver, Bangie Embol, along with professional fine art and batik artist Michael Lim, have been awarded the Asia Pacific Craft Masters titles by the World Crafts Council Asia Pacific Region.

The accolade was presented by Aziz Murtazaev, the president of the World Crafts Council Asia Pacific from Uzbekistan and it took place during the Atelier – Asean Handicraft Promotion and Development Association (AHPADA) Forum, titled “Crafting The Next Generation,” held at the Old Court House today (Dec 1).

Witnessing this prestigious recognition was Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, alongside other distinguished guests.

In his address, Wee highlighted the city’s achievement in being named a World Craft Council- City of Crafts in 2018, a recognition shared with international craft cities like Jaipur, Jogjakarta, Dongyang, Dehua, Khon Kaen, Isfahan, and over thirty others globally. 

This status was conferred by the World Crafts Council, a UNESCO affiliate.

Wee expressed concern over the potential loss of craft skills among the younger generation. He stressed the need for contemporary artisans to acquire new marketing skills and greater global exposure. 

“It is therefore my hope that these issues will be discussed and addressed during the Crafting the Next Generation Forum,” Wee said.

Further, he acknowledged the vital role of Society Atelier Sarawak, a prime promoter of Sarawak arts and crafts since 1985. He called for formal recognition of this non-governmental organisation (NGO) by the Sarawak government.

Wee also hoped for increased national government support for future events and initiatives by Society Atelier Sarawak and AHPADA.

The forum enjoyed the backing of various organisations including the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak; Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak); Sarawak Crafts Council; Sarawak Tourism Board; and Sarawak Tourism Federation.

Also present were Society Atelier Sarawak advisor Datin Dayang Mariani Abang Zain and AHPADA president Edric Ong.