Approaches to Craft Development Strategies for Indigenous Communities in Sarawak

Catriona Elspeth, Maddocks (2017) Approaches to Craft Development Strategies for Indigenous Communities in Sarawak. Masters thesis, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS).

	PDF Approaches to Craft Development 24pgs.pdf Download (9MB)
	PDF (Please get the password by email to repository@unimas.my , or call ext: 082-583914/3973/3933) Catriona Elspeth Maddeocks ft.pdf Restricted to Registered users only Download (167MB)

Abstract

This research aims to develop strategies that can assist craft development in rural indigenous communities in Sarawak, Malaysia. Traditional craft practices have played a significant role in the socio-economic development of Sarawak and can continue to provide sustainable long-tenn development that empowers communities. However in modern times cultural heritage is in danger of being lost due to modernisation, limited knowledge transfer, lack of tinancial incentives, and conventional development initiatives not utilising cultural knowledge to its full potential. This research explores the application of action research in understanding the craft practices and needs of rural indigenous craft makers, encouraging active participation and developing strategies for craft innovation whist giving marginalised communities a voice in their own development. Therefore the objectives ofthis research are (1) to examine the understanding and knowledge of traditional and contemporary plaited craft techniques, materials and designs practiced by rural indigenous communities of Sarawak, (2) to investigate issues, challenges and needs of craft makers in rural indigenous communities, (3) to identify and instigate strategies that respond to the needs of rural, indigenous craft makers and encourage preservation and innovation of craft practices and finally (4) to validate activities and strategies on sample group of rural, indigenous craft makers in Sarawak. This research engages qualitative research methodology and employs observation, discussion, open-ended semi structured interviews and interactive learning circles with participants. Alternative Development methodologies for craft development are applied to sample rural indigenous communities in Sarawak whilst the design methodology is v idated with the Iban community of Kampung Siba, Betong, Sarawak. The developed methodologies demonstrate that marginalised groups actively engage in activities and participate in knowledge sharing, experimentation and ilillovation when action research addresses and responds to their needs and provides potential solutions to the challenges they face in craft production. The outcome of this research provides a clear methodology that ensures active participation and capacity building of rural craft communities and can be utilised as a tool for craft development coordinators, designers and researchers. This research has the potential to provide dynamic and diverse outcomes from craft development which can enhance rural economies and empower marginalised communities.

Actions (For repository members only: login required)

View Item