By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 14: Construction of the Sarawak Craft Centre on a two-acre site near to the Borneo Cultures Museum is expected to begin in 2026 and take about two years to complete.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the Sarawak government had already approved the project site and endorsed its design plan, with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg giving the final green light.
“The land is privately owned and as such need to undergo an acquisition and compensation process before construction can proceed,” he said after officiating the World Eco-Fiber and Textile (WEFT) Forum 2025 at Dewan Sri Mahligai today.
He said preliminary work is underway, noting that the project’s location just steps away from the Borneo Cultures Museum was deliberately chosen to create a vibrant cultural and tourism hub.
“When completed, the Sarawak Craft Centre will house the headquarters of the Craft Council, spaces for sales and exhibitions, and serve as a showcase of our diverse ethnic craftsmanship.
“It is an extremely strategic spot because tourists visiting the Borneo Cultures Museum can conveniently walk over to the craft centre to view exhibitions or shop for local crafts,” he said.
Abdul Karim emphasised that crafts are deeply woven into Sarawak’s identity, with each ethnic group contributing its own heritage, from Malay keringkam and songket, to Dayak pua kumbu, to the Orang Ulu’s renowned basketry and beadwork.
He expressed hope that the project would progress swiftly, given the surge in visitor arrivals and Sarawak’s rapidly growing tourism industry.
“Borneo Cultures Museum is already well-known not just in Malaysia or the Nusantara region, but globally. Once the craft centre is completed, visitors will be able to enjoy both attractions seamlessly,” he added.
Earlier, Abdul Karim officiated the WEFT Forum 2025, which this year welcomes delegates from 20 countries including Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Brunei, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, the United States, Canada, China, Thailand, Taiwan, Laos, Britain, Spain, France, Australia, New Zealand and Malaysia.
Held from Nov 14 to 16, the programme features a curated lineup of forums, workshops, exhibitions, and immersive cultural experiences celebrating global traditions in eco-fiber and textile artistry.
Deputy Minister of Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng and Society Atelier Sarawak president Melinda Omar were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
