By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 20: The working visit by a Sarawak delegation led by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, to the International Festival of Handicrafts in Kokand, Uzbekistan, serves as an essential platform for international collaboration, strengthening partnerships with other countries, and exchanging knowledge.
According to a statement, the visit is undertaken at the invitation of the Mayor of Kokand, Maruf Usmonov, and the chairman of the Hunarmand Association of Uzbekistan, Rasuljon Mirzaakhmedov.
The festival, held from September 19-21, brings together over 300 artisans from 71 countries, alongside Uzbek masters, for a diverse range of activities including exhibitions, masterclasses, folk performances, fashion shows, documentary presentations, gastronomy showcases, and artisan competitions.
“Organised biennially under a Presidential Decree of Uzbekistan, the event is coordinated by the Kokand Mayor’s Office, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Hunarmand Association, and the Fergana regional authorities. Over the years, it has successfully positioned Kokand as a hub for global cultural exchange,” said the statement.
It added that Sarawak is committed to supporting its 34 ethnic communities through sustainable craft and creative industry to ensure that heritage protection is closely linked with improving livelihoods.
“By connecting traditional craft heritage with modern markets, Sarawak is aiming to build a vibrant creative ecosystem that preserves authenticity while ensuring relevance for future generations,” it said.
Accompanying Abdul Karim were Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Julin Alen; Sarawak Craft Council chief executive officer (CEO), Suriya Charles; Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) CEO, Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor; Sarawak Arts Council acting CEO, Awang Ikman Awang Sepian; and other senior officials. — DayakDaily
