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CTI's 15-year mission and beyond: Safeguarding Indonesia's handwoven legacy
Overshadowed by the more famous and recognized batik, the Indonesian traditional handwoven cloth tenun does not lack supporters at home who strive to get the traditional fabric used more in our daily life. Cita Tenun Indonesia commemorates its 15th anniversary celebrating tenun by providing more training for weavers and introducing the fabric to a wider audience.
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Tenun supporters: Cita Tenun Indonesia member Dhanny Dahlan (left), fashion designer Didi Budiardjo (third left), CTI member Cut Kamaril Wardani (fifth left), Intan Fauzi (fifth right), Dewi Ivo Rajasa (third right), weaver Meki Oki Yasari (right) and other attendees pose for journalists before the organization's 15th anniversary celebration on Nov. 7, 2023. (JP/Sylviana Hamdani)
A
s a repository of artisanal treasures, Indonesia unfolds a captivating narrative through its diverse handmade textiles. Besides the globally acclaimed batik, the country also harbors an abundance of handwoven traditional fabrics, known as tenun.
Regrettably, these exquisite homespun textiles often linger in the shadow of their more celebrated counterpart.
While batik graces many different occasions across the archipelago, tenun is mainly worn as kain (wraparound skirts) and selendang (crossbody shawls) during formal ceremonies.
Unfortunately, this custom is gradually fading among younger generations, leading to a decline in the number of weavers in many parts of Indonesia.
Fortunately, the non-profit organization Cita Tenun Indonesia (CTI) steadfastly upholds its commitment to preserving Indonesian handwoven textiles and uplifting the livelihoods of the weavers.
The recent celebration of the CTI's 15th anniversary in Jakarta serves as a testament to its enduring dedication.
"Fifteen years ago, the CTI was founded by a group of women from diverse backgrounds," Okke Rajasa, cofounder and chairwoman of the organization, said during the celebration at The Dharmawangsa, South Jakarta, on Nov. 7.
