The Malaysian Insight

POOR marketing efforts are a key obstacle for Sabah’s craftsmen, said Mohd Shafie Apdal, adding that their products are much sought after.

The chief minister said the state could have surpassed Kraftangan Malaysia’s target of RM49.5 million in craft sales last year had the government provided assistance to the group.

“The success of Sabahan craftsmen not only contributes to the state economy, but also creates job opportunities for locals,” he told reporters after the launch of the Textile Craft Festival in Kota Kinabalu today.

He said other challenges faced by the industry include a lack of equipment and access to the marketplace.

“While the government can come up with promotional campaigns, it must also take into account the limitations on production.”

Shafie added that the industry, with strategic marketing, can penetrate the fashion world.

He gave as an example batik shirts, which are worn by many civil servants on “casual Fridays”.

Present at the event were Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohammadin Ketapi and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Christina Liew. – April 14, 2019.