World Crafts Council International

Stoke-on-Trent expresses pride in becoming a World Crafts City.

Raja Fuziah was a revered elder of the World Crafts Council. She could give warmth and purpose to any gathering. She will be sadly missed.

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of Y. M. Raja Datin Paduka Fuziah Raja Tun Uda, a distinguished Honorary Member and Advisor of the World Crafts Council Asia Pacific Region (WCC-APR). Raja Fuziah's remarkable journey and contributions to the world of arts and crafts spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on our community and beyond. Born in Malaysia, Raja Fuziah's illustrious career began after earning her Bachelor of Science Honours in Sociology from Bedford College, University of London in 1967. Her professional journey was marked by significant roles, including serving as the Assistant Director of Training at MARA, the Council of Trust for the Development of Indigenous People, Malaysia, and later as the Director General of the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (MHDC). Her influence extended internationally, as she held key positions such as Assistant Director-General at the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (OIC-IRCICA) in Istanbul, Turkey, and President of the World Crafts Council Asia Pacific Region. As President, she made pioneering contributions that earned her the status of WCC Honorary Member in 1984. She also served as the President of the ASEAN Handicrafts Promotion and Development Association (AHPADA), highlighting her leadership in regional craft development. Raja Fuziah's commitment to promoting and preserving cultural heritage was evident through her various national appointments. She was a Deputy Chairman of Women’s Affairs at NACIWID, a Jury Member of The National Arts Award, and a member of the National Advisory Council on Culture, Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Malaysia. Her advisory roles continued with the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation and the National Art Gallery Malaysia, where she significantly contributed to national art and cultural heritage. Raja Fuziah's legacy includes numerous exhibitions she curated, promoting Malaysian textile art and heritage both locally and internationally. Her publications and contributions to arts and craft literature further cemented her status as a thought leader in the field. Raja Fuziah's passing is a monumental loss to the World Crafts Council AISBL and the global arts and crafts community. Her dedication, leadership, and passion for the arts have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. Raja Fuziah’s spirit and contributions will forever remain in our hearts and memories. With heartfelt sympathy, The World Crafts Council AISBL

Today marks a monumental milestone as World Crafts Council AISBL celebrates its 60th anniversary! Founded by visionary leaders who believed in the power of crafts to bridge cultures and uplift communities, we have grown into a global organization with a footprint in more than 100 countries, spanning five regions. Over the past six decades, we have tirelessly worked to protect and promote the invaluable heritage of crafts worldwide. Our commitment to artisans and craftspersons has seen us establish robust structures and systems, ensuring that their voices are heard and their crafts are preserved for generations to come. As we honor our founders and reflect on our journey, we look forward to a future where we continue to create lasting impact. Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement and the vibrant craft communities we serve across the globe! Founders: Ms. Aileen Osborn Vanderbilt Webb, Ms. Margaret Merwin Patch, and Ms. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay made history on June 12, 1964, by founding the World Crafts Council AISBL. Regions: Asia-Pacific Africa Europe Latin America North America Thank you for being a part of our journey! Here’s to many more years of crafting a better world together! #WCC60Years #CraftingHistory #GlobalCrafts #ArtisanSupport #CulturalHeritage #WCCFounders #108Countries #5Regions #CraftCommunity #CelebrateCrafts

A wonderful tribute to dear Ruby Ghuznavi.