Guided by renowned industry standards and a vision for sustainable excellence, graduates of the Shoe Making Artisanry course are pioneering innovation in footwear.
Crafting Excellence
TO celebrate a significant milestone in the journey of shoe craftsmanship in Sarawak, the seamless blend of two art forms — music and shoe artisanry — came together to create a harmonious and inspiring event.
The evening began with Dodi Mohammad, the coordinator of the Certificate in Shoe Making Artisanry course, performing an aria called “Vedrò con mio diletto” from the opera “Il Giustino” by Vivaldi, accompanied by Sharnaz Saberi, the Founder and CEO of Prodigy Music Centre.
Following their fine performances, the talented graduating students of the Certificate in Shoe Making Artisanry course at the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) showcased the finished products of their shoes.
This first batch of nine students attended the course inspired by the life of Professor Datuk Dr Jimmy Choo OBE and aligned with his educational philosophy, “Creativity Through Skills”.
The syllabus, personally approved by Choo, is certified by the City & Guilds of London Institute, ensuring a high standard of educational quality and professionalism.
Besides focusing on craftsmanship, the course introduced entrepreneurship, branding, and the understanding of sustainability, preparing students not only as exceptional artisans but also as knowledgeable professionals ready to navigate the modern business landscape.
“Having successfully completed their coursework, our graduates are now embarking on an exciting internship programme.
During this period, they are tasked with creating an exclusive collection that we plan to commercially launch by October or November.
We are gathered here today to propose the establishment of our own consortium, marking the birth of a robust shoe industry in Sarawak.
With this initiative, we aspire to form a shoe association that will unite artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and collaboration within the industry,” said Dodi.
To realise their vision, they are seeking the invaluable support of the Ministry of Tourism.
They aim to debut a limited readyto-wear line and a bespoke madeto-order range, catering to diverse customer preferences.
Additionally, their graduates will offer design development services for individuals and establishments seeking to create their own unique shoe collections.
“We are especially grateful to Datuk Dr Rashidah Bolhassan, who has graciously agreed to serve as our advisor.
Her guidance and support are instrumental in achieving our collective goals.
In conclusion, today’s celebration is not just about acknowledging our graduates’ hard work; it is about laying the foundation for a thriving community of shoe artisans dedicated to excellence and creativity.
Together, let us take this momentous step towards transforming Sarawak into a recognised hub for exceptional shoe craftsmanship,” Dodi added.
The event was organised by Prodigy Event. Among the invited guests were Datuk Dr Rashidah, Special Administrative Officer from Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak; Jessica Finch, RSK Group United Kingdom; Dewi Liana Seriestha, Miss World Talent 2014; and Larissa Ping, Miss World Malaysia 2018.
The graduates paraded in groups of three, each carrying the shoes they created.
Group One
Zamida Khadijah Abdul Wahed:
She has been involved in women’s accessories for 12 years, and her designs have been worn by Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, Queen Consort of Pahang; Karolina Bielawska, Miss World 2022; and local celebrities like Vanidah Imran, Haliza Hashim, and Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza.
Zaiton Bohari:
Despite being 66 years old, she is a dedicated student. With her expertise in Keringkam embroidery, she aims to launch her own shoe brand incorporating Keringkam elements.
Winstoney Jackie Malong:
With a background as a technical planner before moving and settling in Holland, he is now active in the arts and crafts field, especially in ceramics and porcelain painting.
He aims to delve into shoe manufacturing and emphasise sustainability.
Group Two (the triplets)
Dayang Nur Nasbiha Nazifah Abang Adam Malik:
At 20 years old, she is a former graduate in Android Mobile Application Development Certificate and Wireless Hardware Application.
She participated in the course because she harbours a passion for becoming a shoe fashion designer despite her background in technology.
Dayang Nur Nasnita Abang Adam Malik:
She is a former Fashion Technology graduate from CENTEXS.
Equipped with sewing skills, she joined the Shoe Making Artisanry programme to fulfil her dream of becoming a shoe fashion designer in the future.
Dayang Nur Nasnida Najiah Abang Adam Malik:
She is also a former graduate of the Android Mobile Application Development Certificate and Wireless Hardware Application.
She enrolled in the course due to her deep interest in fashion since her school days and aspires to become a shoe fashion designer.
Group Three
Muhammad Daniel Ismalie:
The 20-year-old joined the Certificate in Shoe Making Artisanry course to further explore his passion for art.
With a background in graphic design and painting skills, he aims to deepen his knowledge in the field.
Dayang Rohani Abang Karim: She is an expert in sewing and has pioneered her own tailoring business for over a decade.
Additionally, she has a background in embroidery and Keringkam.
Zurenawatte Zaidil:
She is a producer of ceramic beads and women’s accessories.
Additionally, she serves as the President of the Sarawak Orchid Society.
She aims to establish her own shoe brand incorporating ceramic bead elements.
