KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man said Malaysia’s handicraft industry recorded RM240.3 million in sales as of July 2026 while RM230.3 million, or 96 per cent, of the total came from the domestic market and RM10 million, or 4 per cent, was generated from international markets.
He said this figure clearly shows that while the domestic market is strong, there is still significant room to expand the Malaysian handicrafts in the global market.
“The handicraft industry has value that goes far beyond the beauty of its products. It generates income, creates employment opportunities, empowers communities and elevates Malaysia’s identity through culture-based tourism,” he said in his speech at the launch of the Malaysia International Craft Fair (MICF) 2026 Saturday, as reported by NST.
Also present were Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot; Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation deputy chairman Tan Sri Ong Hong Peng; and Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation director-general Abdul Halim Ali.
On MICF 2026 with the theme “Crafting Heritage, Inspiring Tomorrow,” Chiew said the event played a strategic role in connecting local entrepreneurs with international buyers, markets and industry partners.
According to Chiew MICF 2026 carried an important message that heritage should not only be preserved, but also empowered to grow, innovate and compete.
Meanwhile, the fair, which runs from Sept 26 to Oct 5, brings together 400 local and international vendors from more than 20 countries and is targeting RM20 million in sales.
“MICF 2026 demonstrates the potential of handicrafts as both a cultural asset and a competitive global industry. In addition, MICF 2026 serves as a strategic business-to-business platform to empower local export-ready entrepreneurs by providing access to international buyers, including those from the United States, Japan, France, the United Arab Emirates, Taiwan, South Korea, India, Vietnam, Mauritius, the Philippines, Singapore and Indonesia,” he said.
“Our hope is that MICF 2026 should be more than just an exhibition. It should serve as a platform for trade, international networking and cultural diplomacy, creating more opportunities for Malaysian handicraft entrepreneurs. We preserve our heritage, empower our artisans and expand our markets,” he said.
