
Tanoti is a not-for-profit organization which aims to preserve and share the art of traditional Sarawakian craft for the generations to come. It allows women from local communities to monetize their craft skills and develop a viable career around it. Tanoti works with small and remote villagers to offer employment opportunities to as many communities as possible.
What do they do?
Tanoti produces hand-made custom fabric created by artisan weavers. Each design reflects the craftsmanship passed down through generations of artisans.
Since 2020, Tanoti has expanded its expertise to food products. They work in collaboration with Sarawak’s own producers to develop indigenous food products. This allows those food producers to expand their market on the world stage and to continue to cook and share traditional food.
The organization supports the local communities living around them with what they do best. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic, they produced equipment for workers in the frontline. When schools reopened, they provided masks to all the public school students in Kota Samarahan. They also provided families with sustainable and safe diapers after the price of non-price controlled household goods increased drastically in 2022 and it became more difficult for families to afford it.
How can you help?
You can join the organization as a volunteer to help them on several projects.
It is also possible to visit their workshop and learn about the craft technique by designing and creating your own fabric with the help of an artisan. For those passionate about traditional cuisine, you can participate in an immersive trail and learn about food plants. An itinerary also allows you to visit remote villages and “visit an award-winning longhouse community of Pua Kumbu weavers”.
You can also buy their craft products on Tanoti website to support them.
EXO Foundation support
Tanoti won a sustainability award in 2023 in the people category for their active work in protecting cultural heritage.
The prize will be used in logistic resources to access remote village artisans as the trip to go there is expansive and risky.