By Hanisha Ibrahim
KUCHING: Unlike other entrepreneurs — profit is not the main reason for Juliana Embrose to venture into business.
Instead, this Bidayuh woman is in business because she wants to preserve her family’s traditional handicrafts so that they will continue to be known by future generations.
According to Juliana, she fell in love with beaded handicraft during her childhood.
“Due to my deep interest (in this field), I asked my grandmother to teach me how to make handicraft using beads.
“I always used my free time to make beaded handicraft. During school breaks, I would make beaded scarves,” she recalled.
Armed with a high determination to preserve her family’s traditions and heritage, this 54-year-old took the initiative to establish Juliana Native Handwork in 2010.
After more than a decade of operation, Juliana now owns two handicraft shops (one at Carpenter Street and another at Plaza Merdeka) to display and introduce her craftwork to the public.
Elaborating further, Juliana said to keep the craftwork alive, she has passed down her knowledge to her children.
She said she always reminded her children not to forget the traditions and heritage of their ancestors.
On the challenges she faced, this Bidayuh woman said her sales were relatively slow throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
Juliana shows one of her beaded handicraft. 
Among beaded handicraft made by Juliana.
“I used to earn only RM10 and sometimes, none at all. Even so, it was not a barrier for me to do business. Using my savings, I managed to maintain my business until today.
“Like other entrepreneurs, I sincerely hope that our situation and economy will return to normal. At the same time, I also hope that the government will allow foreign tourists to re-enter Malaysia so that small businesses like mine can revive,” she added.
Those interested in buying Juliana’s beaded handicrafts can contact her at 016-8075415.
A beaded handicraft making process. 
Among beaded handicraft made by Juliana.
