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3EditorialThis edition of Asian Textiles contains a very special article. Vernon Kedit has written about hisfamily‘s involvement in the weaving of Iban blankets in Borneo. The blankets themselves are remarkable,but what is truly amazing is to read about these exquisite textiles from the standpoint ofsomeone who has been intimately involved in the traditions that underpin their creation. We are soused to reading articles by experts and curators, but seldom does one hear the authentic voice ofpeople so closely connected to the textile creators themselves. I feel sure that this article will bewidely read and that Vernon‘s determination to ensure that these traditions are preserved will bearfruit.Also in this edition is yet another wonderful article by Azra Nafees, this time on the textiletraditions of the Swat Valley in northern Pakistan. For the last few years there has been little goodnews coming out of Swat, but Azra‘s delightful article shows that both embroidered and woventextiles play a central role in that society.In addition, we have a piece by Lesley Pullen on the UNESCO decision to award specialstatus to the batiks of Indonesia and a very informative article by Susanna Reece on the V&Acourse on Asian textiles. More to come on that at a later date.Finally, my apologies for the late appearance of this issue. A recent house move, with all theconsequent chaos, is the best excuse I can come up with. However, I would urge all OATG membersto think about how they can contribute to the magazine. The number of articles submitted hasdropped off recently and the cupboard is mostly bare.The EditorMy little cache of textile-related postcards is thinning a bit, but I have found a couple more for thisedition of Asian Textiles. This one, which is undated, shows a Malay woman making songkekpieces on a handloom. See also p27.