Raw materials, small-scale production and access to a wider market among the challenges facing Sarawak's weaving industry, admits Uggah

SPAOH, Aug 2 2026: Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah said the supply of raw materials, small-scale production, productivity, and access to a wider market are among the challenges facing the local weaving industry in Sarawak.

Caption: Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah expresses hope that Bukit Saban will be able to become a supplier of raw materials

“The handicraft and weaving products of the Sarawak community have their own identity. What we need is expertise, branding, marketing networks and technological support so that local products can penetrate the global market,” he said,

He was speaking at the closing of the Borneo Interwoven programme here.

He said the Borneo Interwoven is an important platform in strengthening the heritage textile industry and expanding international cooperation networks to improve the economy of rural communities.

He said the international-class programme held at the Penom Longhouse, Ulu Paku not only successfully brought together traditional textile industry practitioners from various countries, but also opened up space for the local community to learn about new technologies, innovations and methods in the production of woven products and natural dyes.

“This programme has brought awareness to us that the Borneo forests hold very valuable treasures. The natural plants found in the forests have the potential to produce high-quality natural dyes and can become commercially valuable products in the future.

“We hope that one day Bukit Saban will be able to become a supplier of natural dyes to the world market, thus creating new economic opportunities for rural communities,” he said, referring to his state constituency.

 Uggah said that apart from the exchange of knowledge and skills, the collaborative network created through the participation of participants from various countries also opens up opportunities for local craft entrepreneurs to market their products internationally.

The five-day programme from 27 to 31 July brought together approximately 120 participants consisting of weavers, natural dye practitioners, designers, researchers and creative industry players from all over Borneo and the ASEAN region.