After dropping my wife off at the 40th Anniversary Celebration of IPG Keningau on the morning of 08.08.2025, I found myself with three to four hours of free time. A quick search on the internet gave me one destination - the Sabah Handicraft Centre in Keningau, or Pusat Kraftangan Sabah (PKS). Intrigued by its role in preserving and promoting local crafts, I decided it was the perfect opportunity to pay a visit.
As I stepped out of my car, I was greeted by the sight of a sprawling, modern complex - a RM30 million landmark that first opened in 2012. This is the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah (PKS), a visionary project initiated, funded, and developed by the Yayasan Sabah Group as part of its long-term socio-economic development mission. Conceived as a one-stop hub, PKS brings together handicraft collection, artisan training, product marketing, research and development, as well as design innovation under one roof. It seeks to uplift rural communities, create sustainable livelihoods, and safeguard Sabah’s rich cultural heritage for future generations.
My first stop was the exhibition centre, a showcase of the artistry and heritage of local craftsmen. Inside, the displays feature handwoven textiles and batik in different colours, intricately carved wooden pieces, elegant ceramics, delicate glassware, and finely woven baskets and containers. The collection also includes beautifully crafted bags, belts, furniture, and home decor, each reflecting the unique cultural traditions and meticulous skills of Sabah’s artisans.
Coconut Shell Creations - These beautifully crafted items showcase the versatility of coconut shells, transformed into bowls, cups, and decorative figures reflecting the creativity, culture, and resourcefulness of the local communities.
Traditional Woven Conical Hat - Crafted from natural materials such as bamboo and rattan. The intricate black-and-red patterns, meticulously woven into the design, reflect traditional motifs of the Kadazan-Dusun and Murut communities.
Intricate traditional woven handbags - made from colourful plastic strips and traditional woven fabric with colourful geometric motifs.
The kulintangan on display instantly transported me back to a family holidays trip to Shangri-la Rasa Ria back in March 2024 when my two granddaughters, Livvie and Maddie first encountered this traditional music instrument. I still remember their curiosity and delight as the melodic chimes rang out - a charming moment that made the cultural experience even more memorable (
Read here).
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| Some of the traditional music instruments made from bamboo. |
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| Furniture made from rattan. |
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As I made my way toward the back of the complex, I came across several spacious rooms bustling with activity. These areas function both as training classrooms - where aspiring artisans hone their skills under the guidance of instructors - and as production workshops, where intricate handicrafts are meticulously created by students and seasoned craftsmen alike.
A remarkably ingenious creation - a stunning replica of the iconic Menara Tun Mustapha, meticulously crafted from rattan!
After the tour, I felt glad that the state government, through Yayasan Sabah, had the foresight to establish this centre. Beyond preserving and celebrating Sabah’s rich ethnic handicraft traditions, it serves as a vibrant hub for training, skills development, and fostering design innovation - ensuring that these crafts remain relevant in the modern era.
From my observation, Keningau does not yet have enough attractions or venues for tourists and visitors to fully experience its local charm. For visitors who are unsure where to go or what to do, the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah is probably a good starting point. It’s not just a place to browse beautiful crafts, but an opportunity to see Sabah’s cultural heritage come alive before your eyes.
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