KUCHING (Nov 18): The 12th Biennial World Eco-Fibre and Textile (WEFT) Forum here gathered representatives of over 20 countries, each presenting their own offerings for the event.
In her speech, Society Atelier Sarawak president Melinda Omar expressed pride in the forum's continued growth and the shared commitment in promoting natural fibre and textile heritage of Sarawak.
The three-day event hosted workshops as well as an international craft bazaar, which involved designers from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos, China, Kyrgyzstan, India and Bangladesh.
"Over the past three days, international scholars, designers, artisans, students, policymakers and cultural leaders from more than 20 countries have been taking part in the activities covering meetings, workshops and also a crafts bazaar.
"Tonight marked the highlight of the forum, the gala dinner and international fashion show, highlighting hand-woven and handcrafted surfacing creative works of 12 renowned international designers," she said.
The evening also celebrated the 40th anniversary of Society Atelier Sarawak.
"Atelier Sarawak was founded in 1985 with the objectives of upholding and imparting the team's knowledge of the state's arts and crafts including promoting cultural exchanges with other countries, and also supporting research and study into the history and revolutions of our culture, arts and crafts," added Melinda.
Adding on, she said 20 delegates would join a post-forum tour to Rumah Gareh, Sungai Kain in Kapit, to witness the 'ngar' - a traditional Iban Pua Kumbu ceremony.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan and his wife Datin Melinda Claudia Bucking were the guests-of-honour.