IKAT 2.0: Celebrating Borneo’s cultural legacy

Malaysia welcomes the cultural odyssey of IKAT 2.0, a year-long programme that invites Malaysians to explore the rich tapestry of textile art, ethnic tales, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Unfolding as a pop-up textile experiential hub, IKAT 2.0 kicks off its journey in Kuala Lumpur on 6th and 7th January 2024, promising an immersive celebration of local artisan heritage.

Revitalising Malaysian textile heritage

IKAT, short for Immersive Knowledge and Textile, is dedicated to conserving Malaysian textile heritage.

Through strategic collaborations with artisans, new media artists, educational institutions, and subject matter experts, IKAT revitalises traditions.

The programme infuses vitality into heritage textiles, promoting appreciation for motifs, techniques, and creation processes.

Scheduled to tour Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Terengganu and Kuching, the year-long programme, IKAT 2.0 takes form as a pop-up textile experiential hub.

It features an immersive installation, heritage textile gallery, hands-on workshops by skilled artisans, talks and a fashion show.

IKAT 2.0 KL Edition – Whispers of Borneo’s dreams

The inaugural instalment, “Whispers of Borneo’s Dreams,” captivates audiences with the allure of Bornean artisanal textiles.

Focused on Iban handwoven textile Pua Kumbu, Rungus tribe’s pis embroidery, and Borneo’s indigenous communities’ beaded art, the KL edition is curated by Jacqueline Fong, the visionary behind Tanoti Crafts.

Highlights of the IKAT 2.0 x KL Experiential Centre are as follows: –

Immersive Installation “Dreamweavers”:
Step into the vibrant and dynamic realm of “Dreamweavers,” covering 480 sq ft and inspired by the dreams of Bornean artisans. Experience the tenacious spirits of skilled weavers and the beautiful artistry woven into every textile creation.

Textile Gallery and Live Demonstrations:
Immerse yourself in a first-hand experience at the exhibition, appreciating the creativity and intricacy of ethnic textiles up close. Don’t miss the live demonstrations of Pua Kumbu, pis embroidery, and beaded masterpieces, witnessing the revival of cultural heritage where every weave and bead tells a story of craftsmanship and continuity.

Artisan-Guided Workshops:
Explore the artistry of pis embroidery with Crisna binti Mojupi from Kampung Lompozou, Sabah, acknowledged as Adiguru Kraf Sulaiman Pis in 2022 for her unwavering dedication. Uncover Pua Kumbu weaving techniques with Helen Manjan anak Atong from Kapit, Sarawak.

Engaging Talk Sessions:
Participate in engaging discussions led by artisans Crisna binti Mojupi, Helen Manjan anak Atong, and Lucille Awen Jon. Gain insights and expertise in heritage textiles directly from these skilled craftsmen.

Exclusive Fashion Showcase:
Mark your calendar for the exclusive fashion runway on 7th January 2024, featuring contemporary interpretations of heritage textiles alongside Borneo’s cultural vibrancy. The showcase promises a visual feast of curated pieces, incorporating the ideas of more than 20 young designers.

IKAT 2.0 stands as a unique cultural exploration, seamlessly integrating heritage textiles with interactive experiences.

Spearheaded by the Experiential Design Team and powered by Yayasan Hasanah, admission to the pop-up hub is free.

For more details, visit IKAT 2.0 website or follow @IKATMalaysia on Instagram.