KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesia is considering simplified low-interest loans for Palembang songket Micro, Small, and Medium Enterpreneurs (MSMEs) to strengthen cultural preservation and boost competitiveness, said House of Representatives (DPR RI) lawmaker Banyu Biru Djarot on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

He emphasized the need for financial aid, legal protection, and digital marketing to sustain artisans.

Songket is a traditional hand-woven fabric originating from Palembang, South Sumatra. It is crafted by weaving gold or silver threads into silk or cotton, producing intricate, shimmering patterns that often carry symbolic and cultural meanings.

Historically, songket has been worn in ceremonial attire, weddings, and official events, symbolizing wealth, status, and heritage. Beyond its cultural significance, songket production supports local artisans and small businesses, contributing to community livelihoods and the preservation of Indonesia’s textile traditions.

Banyu noted that songket MSMEs continue to face structural challenges, including high production costs, limited access to capital, low adoption of technology, and weak legal protection for their motifs, which remain vulnerable to imitation.

He said these issues undermine the economic value of the products and weaken artisans' role as guardians of cultural heritage.

“Songket is not just fabric, but a cultural identity of Palembang and a source of national pride. Legal protection, access to capital, digitalization, and artisan regeneration are key to sustaining it,” Banyu said in a written statement received in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara.

He stressed the importance of expanding digital literacy training and strengthening technology-based marketing. Banyu also called for collaboration between the central government, regional authorities, and local production centers to reinforce the creative MSME ecosystem.

Songket production centers, he added, play a crucial role in women’s empowerment, local job creation, and the preservation of cultural heritage passed down through generations.

Banyu further emphasized that copyright protection for songket motifs should be prioritized, particularly following controversy over UNESCO’s recognition of certain songket elements as part of Malaysia’s cultural heritage. He said stronger cultural diplomacy and legal recognition are needed to uphold the dignity of Indonesian artisans.

Bayu concluded that supporting songket SMEs would help traditional businesses survive and remain competitive both nationally and internationally. ***