CIMB launches Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf to support SMEs and preserve Malaysian craft
At the heart of Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB is a vibrant showcase of Malaysian artisanal craftworks.
KUALA LUMPUR — CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (CIMB) has launched Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB, a new month-long platform aimed at energising Malaysia’s craft industry while providing meaningful support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the creative economy and beyond.
The launch was officiated by Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah accompanied by CIMB Group chairman Datuk Syed Zaid Albar and CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad chairperson Datin Azlina Mahmad.
The launch marked a significant step in CIMB’s efforts to champion entrepreneurship, heritage and innovation within Malaysia’s growing creative sector.
CIMB Group chief executive officer Novan Amirudin said Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB reflects the Group’s long-standing commitment to empowering SMEs through platforms that enhance capabilities, strengthen networks and create long-term value.
"By supporting entrepreneurship and Malaysian craft in both contemporary and heritage forms, we aim to help future-proof businesses while preserving this artform for generations in line with our purpose of Advancing Customers and Society," he said.
Beyond showcasing craftsmanship, Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB is designed as a holistic business development ecosystem.
The programme includes a series of networking sessions featuring the Saudagar CIMB initiative, open to SMEs from all sectors.
These sessions focus on sharpening entrepreneurial skills, facilitating business matching and creating opportunities for partnerships, financing and cross-selling. Approximately 300 SMEs are expected to take part.
Entrepreneurs from industries such as food and beverage, fashion and property management will share practical insights on topics including cash flow versus profit, managing expenses, branding as part of the business journey, digitalisation and artificial intelligence, as well as scaling from small-batch production to export markets.
Yayasan Hasanah will also introduce available business grants for SMEs, while CIMB’s panel of experts will provide guidance tailored to businesses at different stages of their growth. Adding a creative touch to the programme, Cake Piknik, a local cake community, will host interactive workshops for visitors.
At the heart of Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB is a vibrant showcase of Malaysian artisanal craftworks. Visitors can explore creations across textiles, wood, glass and metal, alongside festive Raya fashion collections by both established designers and rising talents.
Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB
More than 30 fashion and craft boutiques are participating, with their most distinctive works curated and highlighted as the event’s masterpieces.
Participating craft houses include Toko Art, La Putri, Cipela, Earth Heir, Hara Makers, Mah Meri Cultural Village, Kakao Origin and Aperture Café TTDI.
Renowned Tenun and weaving producers such as Terengganu Songket, Manang Songket, Samyama by John Ang, Tanoti and MyPride are also featured.
Fashion designers taking part include Radzuan Radziwill, Tom Abang Saufi, Pink Jambu, Arun Sayfull, Shanell Harun, Tinta Sutera and Qudyn Aziz, together with Kekean Wastra Gallery.
CIMB is also partnering with Sime Darby Property to support the Piala Seri-Ibu Kraf, a competition designed to uncover top talents in the craft industry.
Winners will be selected in categories including Textile, Metalsmith and Non-Metal crafts, alongside special accolades such as the Innovation Award, People’s Choice Award and the Seri-Ibu Special Award, to be selected by the Tengku Ampuan Pahang.
The event brings to life CIMB’s "Kita Bagi Jadi" spirit, a movement celebrating resilience, optimism and positivity among Malaysians, values that are deeply embodied by SMEs as they strive to grow their businesses while nurturing creativity and craftsmanship.
With Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaching, visitors can also expect fresh and distinctive Raya wear drawn from the rich and imaginative collections available for purchase.
From Feb 1 to April 30, CIMB cardholders will enjoy a 10 per cent discount on a minimum spend of RM1,000 in a single receipt when using CIMB debit, credit or prepaid cards at participating craft houses and boutiques, subject to terms and conditions.
Novan added that the business period for participating vendors will be extended until March, allowing them to operate without any additional charges, effectively enabling them to trade free of cost for the extended duration.
Major partners supporting Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB include Sime Darby Property, owner and operator of KLGCC Mall which opened in October 2025 and the Serai Group.
The event will take place from Feb 4 to March 1 from 10am to 10pm at Level 3, KLGCC Mall, here. Admission is free to the public.
Through Minggu Seri-Ibu Kraf CIMB, the bank is not only celebrating Malaysian creativity, but also creating a meaningful platform where heritage, innovation and entrepreneurship meet, reinforcing the vital role SMEs play in shaping a resilient and vibrant economy.
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