by Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 11: Sarawak handicraft products are poised to enter global markets through a new cooperation framework between Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and Linshu County.
Under this partnership, Sarawak artisans will contribute unique designs while Linshu will manage production and logistics, creating a seamless pathway from local creativity to international commerce.
The Crafts Cooperation Framework Agreement, signed between the Linshu County Wicker Woven Crafts Chamber of Commerce and Society Atelier Sarawak, connects Sarawak’s indigenous craft makers with Linshu’s well-established manufacturing and export network.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng and Linshu Mayor Hou Suyun.
According to Wee, the collaboration marks a shift from cultural exchange to commercial expansion, focusing on scaling Sarawak crafts for global markets.
“This cooperation allows our artisans to access wider markets. Linshu has the manufacturing capacity and global reach, while Sarawak has the creative identity and craft heritage,” he said when met by reporters after the signing of the Crafts Cooperation Framework Agreement here today.
He added that foreign partnerships provide valuable market expertise and technical support, enabling local producers to improve design standards, packaging, and quality consistency required by international buyers.
“We aim for meaningful outcomes. To grow Sarawak crafts, we must look beyond small-scale markets. This cooperation supports our goal of establishing ‘Sarawak Best’ as a premium brand for export-ready craft products,” Wee emphasised.
Linshu County in Shandong, China, is internationally recognised as a World Craft City for wicker-woven crafts, with a comprehensive production ecosystem capable of mass-manufacturing rattan products for overseas demand. – DayakDaily
