20 Jul 2024
Ivy (left) and Zee
NABAWAN – In an effort to empower the local economy and create a sustainable value chain within the community, two villages in Mukim Tatalaan, namely Kg Binanun and Kg Pangaraan, participated in a sewing and batik-making programme recently.
This initiative was designed after discovering that the rich cultural traditions of Muruts, despite being the third largest tribe in Sabah, is still very underrepresented and rarely narrated.
Surveys conducted among these marginalised interior communities also highlighted their severe economic hardships, thus prompting the need for such a programme.
During the four-month programme, participants from Kg Pangaraan focused on batik making, while those in Kg Binanun specialised in sewing, created a sustainable value chain between the two communities.
The programme ended by marking its first-ever fashion show in the interiors showcasing Murut Batik fashion products such as cardigans, bags, pouches, scarves and more, created by the communities themselves.
This project aims to elevate the local economy through cultural initiatives.
Zee Shazila
Fashion Designer and Founder of G1FT.
We hope that all efforts to create a value chain through cultural design in this community will be further supported by more corporates, government agencies and foundations.
Ivy J.L
Co-founder of G1FT
As a Murut myself, it’s very heartwarming to see our small contribution in transferring knowledge and skills to these women, can now allow them to earn income and promote their cultural identity as well as create a new cottage industry.
The event was officiated by Kamal Nawawi, CEO of Axiata Foundation as the funder of the initiative through Sabah Social Entrepreneurs Association (SOSEA).
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Empowering Murut Communities with Sewing and Batik Programme
