Sarawak Pottery – The Borneo Post photo
KUCHING (May 16): Strengthening Sarawak’s traditional pottery industry is key to preserving the cultural identity while unlocking opportunities in the creative economy, says Suriya Charles Buas.
According to the Sarawak Craft Council chief executive officer, the revival of pottery goes beyond economic value, describing it as a symbol of heritage, creativity and resilience embedded in Sarawak’s multicultural identity.
“Pottery was once a must-have souvenir for visitors to the state. We are not only discussing an industry, but reviving a legacy,” he said in his welcoming speech at the ‘Town Hall on Ceramic and Pottery Programme’ here on Friday.
However, he noted that the industry had lost visibility due to a shortage of skilled artisans, limited market access, competition from imported products, and insufficient investment in training and innovation.
“If we do not act now, we risk losing not only economic opportunities but also an important part of our cultural identity,” he said.
Suriya added that the council, together with state agencies, had been working on plans to revitalise the sector, including a conference and expo next year.
Sharing industry perspectives, Sarawak Handicrafts, Arts and Souvenir Association president Gerald Goh Teck Joo said the sector was also facing a shortage of raw materials, forcing artisans to rely on costlier imported supplies.
He noted that tourist behaviour has also affected demand.
“Tourists may admire pottery, but that admiration does not always translate into purchases. They come to explore, watch demonstrations and experience hands-on activities,” he said.
Despite the challenges, proprietor Nabilah Abdullah said the ceramic industry still exhibited significant growth potential through product innovation and evolving consumer trends.
She highlighted ceramic beads as having strong commercial value due to their affordability, portability and higher returns compared to larger pottery items.
“The best way for hands-on ceramic activities is something small like beads. We use fewer materials but gain better returns,” she said during her sharing session.
She also stressed the importance of digital platforms including social media and online marketplaces to expand market reach beyond physical stores.
“We must have Instagram, Facebook, and a website so people can find you,” she said.
Nabilah added that collaboration with tourism and hospitality players through workshops and experiential activities could generate additional income and strengthen visitor engagement.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation Sarawak branch director Mohd Fu’ad Ariffin said the agency continued to play a significant role in developing the ceramic and pottery sector through research and development (R&D), skills training, product innovation and market expansion.
He said continuous effort was essential in strengthening the craft industry.
“We need to continuously develop and strengthen craft products in Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole,” he said.
Through its R&D division, the agency conducts studies on materials and techniques to produce more innovative and market-relevant ceramic products.
“Craft entrepreneurs need to improve their skills and understand production challenges to remain competitive.
“What we are building is not just products, but a sustainable craft industry from skills development to market readiness,” added Mohd Fu’ad.
The post Pushing for revival of traditional pottery industry in Sarawak appeared first on Borneo Post Online.