TELANG Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau (GPS-Telang Usan) has revealed that Sarawak’s craft industry has experienced a remarkable boost, with the number of registered craft entrepreneurs steadily increasing.
“While the data is current until June 2021, it indicates a promising trend for the state’s artisanal sector.
“Approximately 1,153 craft entrepreneurs are registered under the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation throughout Sarawak.
“Additionally, 83 new craft products have been introduced, with Miri recording the highest number of craft entrepreneurs in Sarawak at 219, followed by Kapit with 190 and Sibu with 134.”
Dennis expressed his belief that the current figures, though positive, are still relatively low. He emphasised the need to discover and nurture more talented craftsmen and women across Sarawak, especially among the youth and younger generations.
He also expressed his approval of the Sarawak Craft Council Bill 2023 during the debate. He highlighted that both Sarawak and Sabah achieved sales values of RM14.9mil and RM15.8mil, respectively, in the craft industry as of September 2022.
The combined accomplishment of Sarawak and Sabah reached RM30.7mil, indicating a 19 per cent increase or RM25.7mil compared to September 2021.
This impressive sales value contributed to the overall sales of RM211mil in 2022, surpassing Malaysia’s target of RM200mil.
Dennis emphasised the enormous potential of the handicrafts industry market and urged support for the Sarawak Craft Council Bill 2023 to empower the crafts industry, ensuring its sustainability and competitiveness.
