B

ali is going to lose its precious textile traditions unless the island works hard to preserve them and pass on weaving skills to its younger generation, a textile expert warned.

Danendra, chairman of the Association of Bali Textile Experts, said in the past, hundreds of people mastered the skills to weave double woven songket (a glittering, golden woven fabric) as well as endek
ikat textile.

“Now, we have only 15 active and skilled weavers on  the remaining 20 to 40 units of back strap looms,” said Danendra.

Almost every traditional textile producer in Bali is facing difficulties in maintaining their businesses.

“Weavers with limited skills, old weaving equipment and a lack in innovation are the most crucial problems for them,” Danendra added.

Other problems are limited access to management and marketing in order to keep up with modernization.

“Endek woven textile can be modified as material for modern fashion items. Its superb designs and colors are a perfect match for any type of apparel.”

While in the past, endek was only worn by Balinese people for daily and ritual activities, it can be tailored as stylish dresses, office suits and evening gowns.

“The majority of weavers are now in their 40s and 50s. A regeneration process is important,” Danendra said.

Improving designs and qualities has been carried out to meet market demands. “We are now developing a new type of weaving equipment that can produce a 90-centimeter width. The traditional endek was only 50 centimeters in width.”

Ida Ayu Selly Mantra, chairwoman of Denpasar’s chapter of the National Handicraft Council, said that the municipality has been active in promoting endek textile, both in provincial and national events.

“Taking part in various exhibitions was an effective way to introduce endek onto the national stage,” Selly explained. The council regularly organizes fashion shows, and fashion and design contests, to enhance the creativity of endek producers and designers.

Through such activities, youth are encouraged to try and master the fast-disappearing weaving skills.

In addition, space for traditional textile producers has been set aside for small-scale businesses at Kumbasari traditional market in Denpasar.

Okke Hatta Rajasa, chairwoman of  Cita Tenun Indonesia (CTI), a non-profit organization that focuses on developing and preserving tenun woven textiles, explained that Bali is the center of Indonesian traditional tenun textiles.