KUCHING: Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah led a delegation to Baguio City in the Philippines yesterday (Dec 3) to explore collaboration in crafts and the creative industry.
According to the ministry, the visit, which coincided with the World Ikat Textiles Symposium, included a courtesy call on Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong.
“This courtesy visit underscored the significant potential for collaboration between Baguio City and Sarawak particularly in the fields of crafts and creative industry.
“Kuching and Baguio City are members of the Unesco Creative Cities Network, with Kuching recognised as a City of Gastronomy and Baguio as a City of Folk Arts and Craft.
“This common designation underscores their importance in preserving cultural heritage, fostering creative exchanges, and promoting sustainable urban development,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry also said that both cities have embraced the Smart City concept.
“Baguio City is the first and only city in the Philippines to attain ‘Smart City’ status with advanced technology to enhance urban management and quality of life. Similarly, Kuching achieved Smart City status in 2023 aligning with Sarawak’s Post Covidl-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030,” it said.
The ministry said Baguio City is widely recognised for its distinctive crafts, which draw visitors throughout the year.
“These crafts are deeply embedded in the traditions of the city’s indigenous communities, including the Ifugao, Ibaloi, and Kankanaey peoples. They serve as a testament to Baguio’s rich cultural heritage, meticulously preserved and handed down through generations.
“Baguio’s dedication to protecting its traditions while incorporating innovative approaches showcases a seamless blend of heritage and modernity,” it said.
According to the ministry the visit is a significant step toward fostering meaningful collaborations in creative industries, tourism and cultural heritage.
“The partnership aims to promote mutual growth, shared knowledge, and a deeper understanding between Baguio City and Sarawak,” it added.
During the visit, the delegation toured Narda’s Handwoven Arts and Crafts at the Winaca Craft Village, located approximately 45 minutes from Baguio City.
This village actively involves Cordilleran indigenous artisans in preserving traditional weaving techniques while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
“The artisans at Narda’s integrate traditional designs with modern functionality, ensuring their products remain relevant in contemporary markets while emphasising eco-friendly practices, including the use of natural dyes and materials.
“Sarawak could collaborate with the Winaca Craft Village to implement capacity-building programmes that enhance the skills of local artisans, promote sustainable practices, and expand market access opportunities.
“Such a partnership would facilitate knowledge exchange, boost the economic potential of traditional crafts, and simultaneously support cultural heritage preservation in both regions,” the ministry added.
