Sarawak participates in World Ikat Textiles Symposium
~ Official launching of the World Ikat Textiles Symposium.
The World Ikat Textiles Symposium is currently taking place at the Baguio Convention Centre & Cultural Centre in the Philippines from December 3 to 6, 2024 and serves as a renowned platform for artisans, designers, scholars and enthusiasts to explore the cultural and artistic dimensions of ‘ikat’ weaving, preserving indigenous weaving traditions and exploring modern applications for ‘ikat’ textiles.
‘Ikat’ is a traditional resist-dyeing technique used to create intricate textile patterns, and is deeply embedded in Sarawak’s cultural identity as the technique has been used in pua kumbu, the traditional Iban textile rich in spiritual and ceremonial significance.
Led by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP), Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the Sarawak delegation is there to showcase and promote the state’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant textiles, highlighting Sarawak’s commitment to preserving and promoting its iconic crafts on the global stage.
~ Abdul Karim (second left) and Suriya Charles (right) checks out one of the booths showcasing Sarawak's crafts.
The ministry’s participation is also aimed at fostering knowledge exchange on ‘ikat’ weaving techniques, preservation strategies as well as international partnerships for cultural diplomacy, artistic exchanges and joint research, all while enhancing the visibility of Sarawak’s crafts within the global creative industry.
The World Ikat Textiles Symposium features over 100 unique ‘ikat’ pieces from more than 20 countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Mexico, Uzbekistan, Japan, India, and aims to educate the public about diverse ‘ikat’ techniques, foster cross-cultural exchanges on issues affecting weaving communities, build networks among artisans, craft organisations and textile enthusiasts.
Also part of the Sarawak delegation are Deputy Minister of Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, MTCP Permanent Secretary, Datu Sherrina Hussaini, Sarawak Craft Council Manager, Suriya Charles and other senior members of the ministry.
