KUCHING: Malaysian artisans should work with the Cultural Economy Development Agency (Cendana) to promote their products internationally, says Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa.

       He said craft products, particularly those with authentic ethnic designs, had the potential to become collectors' items worldwide.

       "Actually, such products are priceless. If promoted in the right way, they can become not just ordinary merchandise to be bought anywhere but something that people collect.

       "But we need to know who the artisans are, while how the products are made should be narrated well to increase their value.

       "I hope Cendana will look into these aspects and give a new touch to our craft products for the international market," he said after visiting songket atelier Tanoti House here on Friday (Oct 22).

       Annuar said Cendana was set up by the Federal Government to promote efforts to develop the creative industry, including craft products.

       He noted that Sarawak was rich in craft products which could easily make the transition from the local to the international market.

       "To facilitate this, Cendana needs to identify the craft products and their artisans and assist them to enter the international market.

       "These products are our national heritage which cannot be found elsewhere.

       "They need to be developed properly and Cendana can play a role," he said.