Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysia International Craft Fair (MICF) 2026, which commenced on September 24, has set a target of RM20 million in sales of Malaysian craft products on the international stage.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man highlighted that the domestic market accounted for RM230.3 million, or 96 percent, of the RM240.3 million in total craft sales recorded as of July. International sales stood at RM10 million, or four percent, showing a substantial potential for growth overseas.
MICF 2026 serves as a strategic platform to connect local entrepreneurs with international buyers from countries such as the United States, Japan, France, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and South Korea. Minister Chiew emphasized that Malaysian craft products carry the stories, creativity, and identity of the country when they are introduced overseas.
The event, held at the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex, was attended by key figures including Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation deputy chairman Tan Sri Dr Ong Hong Peng, and director-general Abdul Halim Ali.
Chiew stated that MICF 2026 aims not only to elevate heritage art practitioners but also to provide direct economic benefits to the community and craft entrepreneurs. The fair offers a business-to-business networking platform and international exposure to increase the demand for Malaysian craft products globally, supporting preparations for the Visit Malaysia 2026-2027 campaign.
During the event, awards were presented, including the National Craft Figure 2026, Craft Entrepreneur 2026, and Young Craft Entrepreneur 2026, to honor outstanding contributors in preserving and modernizing heritage arts.
Organized by Kraftangan Malaysia, MICF 2026 features 400 local and international craft entrepreneurs. The event includes exhibitions, sales, demonstrations, craft explorations, and programs that connect industry players with the market.