Indonesia Bridges Tradition and Modernity Through Woven Textiles

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian traditional weaving is gaining wider public exposure through contemporary fashion and lifestyle approaches, opening new economic opportunities for artisans and creative industry players.

Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, officially opened “Weaving Archipelago” at Senayan City in Jakarta. The program, held from August 12–29, 2026, is a collaboration between Senayan City and Cita Tenun Indonesia (CTI) as part of the Glorify Indonesia 2026 series.

Minister Riefky expressed appreciation for the initiative. “Woven textiles have long existed in Indonesia, and designers have incorporated them into their work with great creativity,” he said in Jakarta on Wednesday, August 12, as quoted on the ministry’s official website.

He emphasized the importance of supporting the development of woven fabrics to ensure their economic value continues to grow. “As their economic value increases, we hope everyone, including the artisans, will become more prosperous,” he said.

Weaving Archipelago features a Tenun Display, the CTI Journey, installations of traditional looms, weaving demonstrations, cultural performances, talk shows, workshops, and styling sessions. The series is designed to connect cultural heritage with the needs of today’s creative industry.

Minister Riefky noted that presenting woven textiles in public spaces such as shopping malls can expand public access, especially among younger audiences.

“What we are doing here is not only preserving culture, but also generating economic value. We must promptly register the intellectual property and designs with the Ministry of Law to prevent piracy, so we can collectively safeguard their originality, economic value, and protection,” he said.

He also hopes Weaving Archipelago will grow beyond a conventional exhibition. “It should serve as a space for new collaborations, open business opportunities, strengthen local brands, and help Indonesian woven textiles gain greater global recognition,” he said.

CTI Secretary General Intan Fauzi said the event continues the organization’s long‑standing efforts to promote Indonesian weaving through collaboration and marketing. “Amid the onslaught of international brands, one of Indonesia’s sources of pride -- woven textiles -- is showcased right here on the ground floor,” she said.

Founded on August 28, 2008, CTI focuses on preservation, artisan training, quality development, and marketing of Indonesian woven textiles. The organization now supports artisans in 28 regencies and cities across 14 provinces and is expanding its promotional efforts through various partnerships, including an exhibition in Singapore. ***