Sarawak textile heritage takes global stage at BiTF 2025 launch

KUCHING (Dec 8): Sarawak’s textile heritage is being repositioned as an economic engine with global reach as the Borneo International Textile Festival (BiTF) 2025 was officially launched on Sunday.

The launching ceremony was officiated by Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

Speaking at the event, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said digital connectivity and improved logistics now enable rural weavers to expand their markets beyond Malaysia.

“By leveraging our cultural capital, every Pua Kumbu or Keringkam sold abroad becomes both a cultural export and an economic gain,” he said.

Under the theme ‘Weaving the Future: Connecting Cultures, Communities & Creative Industries,’ BiTF 2025 reinforces Sarawak’s standing as a beacon of artistry and tradition.

“We celebrate not only the beauty of textiles but also reaffirm our commitment to shaping their future,” said the minister.

He added that textiles are no longer confined to niche practitioners or academic study, but are “living, breathing celebrations of the identity of our ethnic groups.”

“The loom still beats strong, but now with a rhythm of innovation, sustainability, and global relevance,” he said.

Reflecting on the challenges of uplifting cultural textiles, he said the next frontier is embracing regenerative fashion.

“We must transform faded Songket and torn Pua Kumbu into modern accessories—appealing to youth and ensuring our heritage lives on the streets of London and Tokyo,” he noted.

He further expressed gratitude to Tunku Azizah for her unwavering support of Sarawak’s textile industry, noting that her dedication to cultural textiles has helped safeguard the nation’s heritage.

“Her vision and dedication have revived Tenun Pahang into a global symbol of dignity, resilience, and hope,” he added.

Tunku Azizah was accompanied by her daughter, Tengku Puteri Raja Tengku Puteri Jihan Azizah ‘Athiyatullah Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.