Young Kayan artisan helps rural women in Bintulu turn rattan craft into new income

KUCHING, Sept 7 — Young Kayan artisan Fedrick Ding is empowering rural women through traditional rattan weaving by turning handcrafted pieces into contemporary fashion items. The 32-year-old from Tubau, Bintulu, collaborates with local artisans to create products that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern designs. His interest in the craft began six years ago when his uncle, a rattan bag maker, sought his help with marketing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ding recalled how the pandemic left rural communities with no income, prompting him to explore new ways of reaching a broader market. His product range has since expanded to include shoes, handbags, and ethnic beaded jewelry, priced from RM599. Ding sources rattan from villagers in Bakun and Belaga, as well as his hometown, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Bintulu town.

Women artisans are often involved in every step of the process, from gathering materials to weaving. Ding emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing their exceptional weaving skills. Many of the artisans he works with are aged 50 and above, and he ensures fair pricing, paying the full market price for each piece. While traditional weaving has historically been less appealing to younger generations due to its unpredictable income, Ding has noticed a shift in perceptions.

He aims to change the local mindset from viewing rattan as merely a souvenir to appreciating it as a fashion item. Ding recently showcased his creations at the Borneo Native Festival in Kuala Lumpur and has also been featured at the London College of Fashion. His products have garnered interest from consumers in Australia and Singapore.

Ding seeks to expand his reach by collaborating with more artisans across Sarawak and connecting them with international markets. He believes that behind every woven shoe or handbag are the hands, knowledge, and livelihoods of rural artisans, a legacy he hopes to sustain and grow through his work.