Foreign Tourists Explore Labuan’s Unique Cultural Heritage At LAWA gallery

LABUAN, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- The Labuan Warisan (LAWA) Gallery is attracting foreign visitors eager to explore the island’s unique cultural treasures.

Officially opened by Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, on July 27, the gallery showcases authentic local handicrafts, souvenirs, home décor, personal accessories, fashion, textiles, and handmade batik.

A group of 12 Chinese tourists were among the latest to explore and experience firsthand the uniqueness of Labuan’s handicrafts and traditions.

Jerry Teo, head of the Labuan Chapter (Tourism) of the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Business Council, said the visit reflects the growing appeal of the gallery as a cultural hub connecting international travellers with the island’s creative heritage.

“The visitors toured the gallery today and personally experienced the beauty of Labuan’s traditional craftsmanship through guided sessions that showcased the artistry and dedication of local artisans. 

“From admiring intricately handmade seashell crafts and leaf-based decorative pieces to exploring textile dyeing techniques and rattan weaving, the tourists witnessed the depth of Labuan’s cultural creativity,” he told Bernama.

He said, adding to the authenticity, LAWA Gallery organised live demonstrations, where artisans explained and displayed the process of producing distinctive crafts. 

“Tourists interacted closely with the makers, asking questions about the techniques passed down through generations and even trying their hand at weaving and floral decoration.

“The exhibition featured a diverse collection of cultural products, including seashell ornaments, spice sachets, decorative floral crafts, and batik fabrics, each reflecting Labuan’s coastal identity and multicultural influences,” he added. 

Teo said among the most popular items purchased were cold-pressed coconut oil from Chimney, eco-friendly rattan clutches, modern woven handbags, and the unique ‘Manik Vinusak’ necklaces and accessories that carry indigenous design motifs.

For many visitors, he said, the experience went beyond shopping; it was a cultural journey that allowed them to bring home tangible memories of Labuan while supporting local entrepreneurship.

“The visit not only benefits tourism but also helps preserve and revitalise traditional craftsmanship at a time when modern consumer trends often overshadow heritage-based industries. With growing demand for authentic cultural experiences, exhibitions such as LAWA’s are set to play a larger role in attracting tourists from key markets like China, who are increasingly seeking immersive travel activities,” he said.

-- BERNAMA