Sarawak showcases creative heritage, women artisans at Jakarta Int’l Handicraft Trade Fair

Snowdan (centre) and the Sarawak delegation at the Sarawak booth in Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair recently.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 4: Sarawak’s artisans took centre stage at the Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair (INACRAFT) 2026, proudly showcasing the State’s unique and innovative products at its dedicated booth.

The Sarawak delegation, led by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Datuk Snowdan Lawan, attended the event at the Jakarta International Convention Centre from Feb 4 to 8.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Indonesia’s Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsyal.

The theme of INACRAFT 2026, “From Smart Village to Global Market: Exploring and Celebrating Womenpreneurs in Craft,” highlights women artisans and underscores the role of creative enterprises in cultural preservation, sustainable community development, and entrepreneurship.

In a media release, Snowdan noted that the theme aligns closely with Sarawak’s vision to strengthen heritage-based creative industries.

“Sarawak views creativity and heritage crafts as key drivers of inclusive economic growth, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism,” he said during the opening of the Sarawak booth under the Asia Pacific Craft Alliance Pavilion.

He added, “The theme reflects Sarawak’s commitment to empowering creative communities, particularly women artisans and local producers, to access wider markets while safeguarding cultural identity and traditional knowledge.”

Snowdan also emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration, noting that events like INACRAFT bring together ASEAN artisans, creative hubs, and government and private partners.

“Such engagements contribute to digital transformation, productivity enhancement, and global competitiveness, which are central to Sarawak’s tourism and creative industry development strategies,” he said.

During the fair, the delegation engaged with industry stakeholders and explored curated exhibits showcasing traditional and contemporary crafts, digital innovations, and sustainable designs.

The Sarawak delegation included Sarawak Craft Council (SCC) CEO Suriya Charles, Sarawak Arts Council acting CEO Awang Ikman Awang Sepian, Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) deputy director Rudzaimer Malek and representatives from Kraftangan Malaysia (Sarawak). They were accompanied by Consul General of Indonesia in Kuching Dr Abdullah Zulkifli, his wife Irma Zulkifli, and senior officers. — DayakDaily