Despite being part of Malaysia, the culture and heritage of Borneo has not been celebrated enough within our community. We bet none of you even know where Borneo is. Which is why we would like to change that!
Discover a whole new perspective of colours and flavours, rich in authentic East Malaysian art. Dive into the world of the indigenous and look forward to the many unique experiences that awaits. Here are two events you can go to and experience Borneo for yourself! Welcome to Borneo.
Discover “Amazing Borneo” At Intermark Mall
For the first time, Intermark Mall and Borneo Street KL presents “Amazing Borneo” displaying the unique culture of Sabah and Sarawak through authentic tribal apparel, musical instruments, intricate craftsmanship, and, of course, enticing foods. “Amazing Borneo” strives to promote and maintain East Malaysia’s indigenous culture in connection with the commencement of the new season following the Gawai harvest celebration in June, by providing customers with a unique and authentic experience.
The educational exhibition, engaging workshops, cultural performances, and handicraft booths at the Amazing Borneo Gallery, Ground Floor, can offer a touch of Borneo to shoppers’ shopping experiences at Intermark Mall. From basket weaving demonstrations to demonstrations of how to make ‘kek lapis’ Sarawak, Intermark Mall promises to be a one-stop East Malaysian heritage discovery from now until 3rd July 2022, and admission is free.
There’s plenty of Borneo-inspired shopping that can be had! For a bright assortment of traditional crafts and summer needs, shoppers should visit the Borneo Artisan Fair by Summer by Aisha, 1st Floor. Living Circles Concept, Concourse includes ethnic woven homeware such as rustic rattan baskets, and if all this talk of Borneo has inspired you to get outdoors and into the East Malaysian jungles, Sports Direct, 1st Floor has all the outdoor gear you need for an adventure!
Customers who spend RM250 or more in a single receipt at Customer Service Desk, Ground Floor, will receive an exclusive Borneo print stationery pouch or a F&B coupon.
Visit their website for more information on the Amazing Borneo Gallery and its workshops, or follow Intermark Mall on Facebook, Instagram, or call their Customer Service at 03-2166 8170 for real-time updates.
Malaysian Artisans Celebrate Borneo
At its most recent artists market, the Craftsmen Havens gathered 17 artisans from Sarawak and Sabah, as well as those inspired by Borneo’s beauty, to present products that reflect East Malaysian culture and tradition. Malaysian Artisans Celebrate Borneo is a month-long event held in Intermark Mall in KL that allows tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of Borneo’s unique handicrafts.
Borneo, the world’s third-biggest island and Asia’s largest, is famed not just for its beaches and old, bio-diverse forests, but also for its wildlife, which includes orangutans and clouded leopards. The craftsmen taking part in Malaysian Artisans Celebrate Borneo come from all around Borneo and want to share products that are made on the island or inspired by it.
Featuring bespoke perfume and one-of-a-kind resin artwork to Penan bags and stainless steel tiffins embellished with decoupage, the businesses at the bazaar include Jadi Batek, Olfac3, The Asli Co, Idang Bulan, Puhus Pepper Plantation, Pouring My Art Out, Raben Beads, Mosongon, The Orkids, Sanyi Orchids, DonningDonna, Ment Eyna, Caropaya, Helping Hands Penan, Gocheeks, Tiffin Made With Luv, and Binasinar Summer.
The Artisans Haven is a virtual marketplace that showcases the local artisanal scene and their authentic handicrafts. It is a platform that supports artisans by providing them with adequate digital resources and abilities, increased networking capabilities, and exposure to help their businesses thrive and remain competitive. In keeping with its name, the company feels it is critical to promote local craftspeople and allow them to thrive. This will eventually lead to long-term, sustainable growth.
To find out more about The Artisans Haven, please visit their website as well as their online store.
Daniela Dogliani contributed to this article.
