At the London Craft Week 2023, Sarawak once again reinforced its commitment to spur economic growth for Sarawakian entrepreneurs, artisans, and craftsmen through digital economy.
On 7 May, the Sarawak Premier led a delegation to the London Craft Week 2023 following Malaysia’s participation under the patronage of Her Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
Among those present during the event was the wife of Sarawak State Governor Tuan Yang Terutama (TYT), Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, wife of Sarawak Premier, Datuk Amar Hajjah Juma’ani Tun Tunku Haji Bujang, and Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
With the intention of promoting Sarawak products, the event saw Her Majesty and the Premier introduced the Saratage website, developed and designed by the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) Commercial to ensure borderless access to Sarawak heritage and craft.
In introducing the Saratage online platform, the Premier emphasised its importance, “The locally developed Saratage website by CENTEXS Commercial is our commitment to bringing the world to Sarawak via digital platforms and will open new markets for our 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.
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.
Scheduled from May 6 to May 14, the London Heritage Week was held at the Malaysian Hall at High Commission of Malaysia’s premises in Belgrave Square.
According to the press release by the Sarawak Tourism Board, the Sarawak Premier said, “We are honoured to represent and showcase Sarawak traditional crafts to an international audience at the London Craft Week. This event with 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 Her Majesty SPB 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 takes centre stage 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 event will be an excellent platform for our artisans to share their stories and showcase their craftmanship to the world and at the same can help create a sustainable income that not only benefits the artisans but also the local economy.
About SARAtage:
SARATAGE (Sarawak Heritage) as an initiative to grow and empower the heritage industry in Sarawak. Invented by CENTEXS Heritage Fashion designer, apparel such as dresses, suits, veils, shawls, shoes goes under the brand. This designer gag place was proudly crafted by our talented artisan, Cheche. Each place was designed uniquely with intricate pattern.
Five categories are available through SARAtage;
- Songket and keringkam
- Apparels and garments
- Accessories
- Crafts
- Heritage fashion products
