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Ganjar visits traditional craftsmen in Jepara
Jepara is a Central Java regency, which is famous a producing center for gebyok, Javanese carved wooden walls, and other wood products.
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Presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo (center) poses for a selfie after attending a dialogue with young voters in Bekasi, West Java, on Dec. 15, 2023. During the event, the former Central Java governor heard the concerns of young people, such as challenges in applying for jobs and opening new businesses. (Antara/Akbar Nugroho Gumay)
Presidential candidate Ganjar Pranowo visited on Tuesday a craft center in Jepara, Central Java, and found that many craftsmen still have problems in securing loans for their businesses.
"Jepara is still a favorite for carving, especially for gebyok [Javanese carved wooden walls]. They [the craftsmen] already understand how to sell [the products] through social media. It's just a matter of making access to credit easier. We will try in the future," said Ganjar, as quoted by Kompas.
The former Central Java governor took the time to observe the craftsmen’s routines. He also attempted to learn how to carve a flower-patterned gebyok using a wood chisel and hammer.
During his visit, Ganjar also had a dialog with the craftsmen to listen to their aspirations regarding access to credit.
"We gebyok entrepreneurs are struggling with [obtaining] teak wood raw materials and funds," said Marjono, one of the gebyok craftsmen in the area.
According to him, gebyok artists in the village receive loans of only between Rp 10 million (US$645,16) and Rp 15 million through the micro credit program (KUR).
Another gebyok craftsman, Muslikan, also mentioned that the loans were only enough to purchase raw materials and pay workers.
Ganjar also brought lawmakers Musthofa from House of Representatives Commission XI overseeing finance and banking, and Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, the deputy chair of House Commission X overseeing education and tourism.
"For gebyok craftsmen who need credit, please register and take an inventory. We will facilitate them," said Musthofa.
Agustina said that there would be a survey on tools needed for carving so that craftsmen in Jepara can utilize modern technology and eventually attract the younger generation to learn the trade.
