Issues and Challenges In the Production of Handicrafts by Iban and Orang Ulu Women in Central Sarawak

Malaysia has made an effort to protect handicrafts under Jabatan Warisan Negara and promote small scale production under the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation. There is also an NGO working to promote and preserve handicrafts in Sarawak, such as the Society Atelier Sarawak. Seven of Sarawak’s handicraft have been awarded the prestigious UNESCO/World Crafts Award of Excellence in 2016. However, at the grass root level amidst the efforts to promote handicraft industry in Malaysia, the scenario differs. This paper aims to identify issues and problems faced by Iban women who are involved in handicraft production in Central Sarawak. This research employs a qualitative approach through in-depth interview and participatory rural appraisal. A total of 17 longhouses were visited for the study and interviews were conducted on 34 women who were involved in handicraft production. Findings show that the main type of handicraft are mat, weaved textile (pua kumbu), beads jewelleries and accessories, baskets, bags and souvenir items like key chain. The main reasons for continuing the tradition includes interest, way of life and self-consumption and seeking for additional income.