"The initial data collection on the tenun ecosystem in Indonesia was carried out with several experts and designers who are based in the regions," said the ministry's director of cultural utilization development, Irini Dewi Wanti, at Raja Prailiu village, East Sumba, on Thursday.
She said that the ministry involved designers based in regions, such as Samuel Watimena, to collect data on Tenun Ikat and Pahikung in East Sumba, Central Sumba, Southwest Sumba, and West Sumba.
According to Wanti, the results of the data collection will be followed up by stakeholders in an effort to maximize the cultural potential of the community, especially in East Sumba.
Based on the initial data collection, there are at least 476 weavers in the NTT region who are active, both individually and in groups.
The data collection also identified 19 maestros, making NTT the province with the most weaving maestros compared to other regions covered by the ministry's data.
Meanwhile, Sumba Island has 85 types of woven fabric motifs, of which 94 percent are still surviving and developing to this day.
These motifs are inspired by plants and animals and symbols connected to the local belief, Marapu.
Weavers usually conduct weaving activities at home or gather at weaving centers or homes. The large number of weavers in Sumba is also supported by the local government's policy of including weaving in learning subjects.
Tenun Ikat fabrics have an important value, both socially and culturally, as they are used in traditional rituals that mark the life cycle of a person, from birth to death.
Woven fabric has developed into a creative economy product that supports small local businesses and tourism.
Related news: Strengthening Indonesia-Japan ties through traditional woven fabrics
Related news: A day in Lombok: pottery, 'tenun', and mesmerizing sunset
Translator: Hreeloita S, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
