Gawi Sia Festival Highlights East Nusa Tenggara Cultural Heritage

KBRN, Jakarta: Wuamesu Indonesia, in collaboration with the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Humanities and the Jakarta Experience Board, hosted the Gawi Sia Talkshow and Tenun Presentation at Tavia Heritage Hotel Jakarta on Friday, June 6, 2025.

The event is part of the Gawi Sia Festival, set to take place on July 19, celebrating the cultural richness of East Nusa Tenggara.

The Gawi Sia Talkshow aims to showcase the enduring significance of Gawi Sia traditions and Ende Lio woven fabrics through inspiring discussions and narrative-driven fashion displays.

The talk show featured distinguished speakers, including Mikael Tani Wangge, a traditional leader from Ende Lio; Andesha Hermintomo, an architect and founder of Rame-Rame Jakarta; Laura Muljadi, a social activist and founder of Matahari Dari Timur; and Shendy Ristandi, a social activist and songwriter, who also served as the moderator.

The discussion explored how traditional culture remains relevant in modern society and contributes meaningfully to contemporary life, particularly for younger generations.

Following the talk show, the Tenun Presentation showcased collections of Ende Lio woven fabrics from Wastra Jo Seda, Lio Sare, 2Na Collection, and Arief Wicaksono.

Fifteen young models from East Nusa Tenggara presented these fabrics in a fusion of traditional authenticity and modern elegance, illustrating how heritage textiles integrate seamlessly into today's fashion landscape.

Wuamesu Indonesia Secretary Greg Agung emphasized the festival's mission to revive the noble values of Ende Lio culture and promote woven fabrics as a symbol of national identity.

"The event seeks to reconnect traditional heritage with the modern era, ensuring that woven fabrics remain a significant part of our cultural identity," he said.

Supported by the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Humanities, the initiative reinforces efforts to preserve local traditions through educational and creative platforms.

Wuamesu Indonesia hopes the festival will inspire younger generations to cherish and uphold Indonesia's cultural heritage. ***

Translator: Gusti Panji

Editor: Lasti Martina