‘Woo tourists with new handicraft’

Mohd Ridzwan (right) chatting with men’s jewellery craftsman Mohd Norizy Mokhtar.

CRAFTSMEN in Johor have been advised to come up with new products as souvenirs for tourists now that the Malaysian border has reopened.

Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation Johor director Mohd Ridzwan Misran said those involved in the handicraft trade suffered a huge loss of income due to the international border closure following the Covid-19 pandemic.

“In the past two years, the lack of tourists and visitors caused their income to dip by at least 70%.

“While items such as handmade apparel and accessories were well-received through online sales, larger items such as wooden furniture did not fare as well.

“During the movement control order periods, such factories and workshops were not allowed to operate and the craftsmen faced difficulties in making their products,” he said.

Mohd Ridzwan said all sorts of promotional efforts had been carried out, including the recent National Craft Festival, to showcase the skills and products of craftsmen under its tutelage.

“The border reopening is a good chance for them to regain customers and promote their crafts.

“The craftsmen are excited to welcome tourists into Johor again, especially from Singapore, who used to be a big chunk of their customer base.

“In anticipation of that, we have advised them to come up with fresher offerings based on market trends that also carry the Johor identity,” he said.

“We urge batik producers to design textile and styles suitable for Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

“Besides wearable items, the souvenirs available include soft furnishings such as table runners and cushion covers,” he added.

Apart from the craftsmen, Mohd Ridzwan said the corporation also gave disadvantaged communities a chance to learn craftmaking and increase their income.

“Under this initiative, single mothers, housewives, the disabled and those whose income were affected by the pandemic were taught a variety of skills. We will help to market and promote their products.

“We want to provide an opportunity to all to learn and get to know local crafts.

“People usually think that craftwork is old-fashioned but the public will be surprised by the fresh new take, especially items by young craftsmen,” he added.

Mohd Ridzwan said those interested could visit Johor Craft Complex in Larkin, Johor Baru, to see the wide variety of items.

“We have 206 craftsmen registered with the corporation,” he said, urging those looking for souvenirs, door gifts or tokens to head to the complex which is a one-stop centre to cater to the customer’s needs and budget.

Johor Craft Complex is open from 9am to 6pm daily.

For details, call 07-235 0433 or email [e-mail]