Sarawak officials seek GI registration for sape musical instrument

Efforts are underway to register the sape, a traditional musical instrument of the Orang Ulu people in Sarawak, through Geographical Indication (GI) status. The initiative aims to protect the instrument's authenticity, identity, and unique manufacturing methods as its market popularity grows.

Dr. Elena Gregoria Chai Chin Fern, a senior official from the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, emphasized the need to document specific details such as origin, wood types, and traditional construction techniques. This documentation is intended to prevent the misuse of the name ‘Sarawak sape’ for products that do not meet established cultural and technical standards.

A recent engagement session in Miri brought together industry stakeholders, sape makers, and experts to discuss the registration process. The initiative also involves collaboration with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) to guide makers through the legal requirements for GI protection.