KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysia International Craft Fair (MICF) 2026, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) through the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Kraftangan Malaysia), brought together 400 local and international craft entrepreneurs at Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur from Sept 24 to Oct 5.
The 12-day fair, themed “Crafting Heritage, Inspiring Tomorrow”, featured 300 local craft entrepreneurs from across Malaysia and 100 international craft entrepreneurs from more than 20 countries.
MICF 2026 served as a platform for craft entrepreneurs to connect with domestic and international buyers, including craft-related exporters, government agencies, hospitality companies and shopping centres.
The fair also featured Business-to-Business (B2B) matching sessions held in two phases, from Sept 24 to 28 and Oct 1 to 5, involving international corporate buyers from the United States, Mauritius, Qatar, Australia, France, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates and the Philippines.
Themed “Crafting Heritage, Inspiring Tomorrow”, the fair highlighted efforts to preserve and develop traditional craft heritage as a source of inspiration for the future, while incorporating modern, creative and innovative approaches to ensure Malaysian crafts remain relevant globally.
MICF 2026 also showcased international craft traditions through demonstrations by artisans from six countries, namely jade carving from China, Maori carving from New Zealand, jewellery art from Uzbekistan, Beeralu lace work from Sri Lanka, leather art from Indonesia and Tarkashi brass inlay from India.
Meanwhile, 10 local master craftsmen and craft entrepreneurs conducted demonstrations showcasing Malaysian craft techniques.
Apart from offering a wide range of local craft products from across Malaysia, MICF 2026 featured various programmes and attractions, including the Craft Exhibition, Expression and Exploration, International Craft Talks, International Fashion Show, cultural performances and visitor engagement activities.
Various activities were also organised in collaboration with strategic partners, including the Malaysia Traditional Fusion Dance Competition, Threading Heritage Through Turkiye, Piala Seri Ibu, Reka Rona Malaysia, Reka Cipta Baju Kurung dan Baju Kebaya, Ratu Kebaya Competition, Malaysia Heritage Singing Competition, Miss Malaysia Kebaya, Seni Silat Championship, Hikayat Wangsa 2026, Heritage Treasure Hunt, PolyCC Fashion Week 2026, Face of Asia Malaysia 2026, and Baju dan Lagu.
Further information on MICF 2026 is available at www.micf.com.my.
—Bernama
