Colorful patterns are in contrast with the calm, green landscape at Ensaid Panjang village deep in the jungle of Indonesia’s West Kalimantan. The women of Dayak Desa, a sub group of The Ibanic Dayak, who live in community houses, have been perfecting the weaving technique with the signature patterns from the region. Some of these include pucuk rebung, ikan krusung, and animal patterns like deer.

The fabrics signify the the identity of the people of the region and is a matter of pride of the community. It is this connection that drives the needs to diversify products and to attract more young people to learn their cultural heritage.

Early one morning in late January, amid the din of sewing machines operating as if in unison, a group of women of different ages, worked on making masks, book-covers, bags and wallets. They were among 20 participants in a five day-workshop organised by Solidaridad Network Indonesia and Lawe Foundation.

The workshop was part of grassroot initiative under UNDP’ Kalimantan Forest (KALFOR) Project, funded by Global Environment Facility (GEF). In partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, KALFOR project has been working on implementing biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation practices with the aim of protecting the forest in the long term. Sintang district is among the intervention areas.

Part of the project’s mission is to boost the capacity of forest-based communities with improved skills to produce more competitive handcrafts and equip them with innovative business skills.

“We are excited to learn the different ways to create products from our local ikat [the local fabric made using weaving technique]. I learned how to use the sewing machine and make masks, and other items, ” said Herlina, one of the participants.

The women are planning to sell the Ikat products to nearby markets in towns, giving them opportunities to earn extra income.

With support from the Sintang district government, the local initiative has morphed into an opportunity to transfer local wisdom to the younger generation. Ensaid Panjang village has committed to safeguarding their forests for future generations. Fransiskus Heri, Head of Ensaid Panjang Village, highlighted the local practice to maintain the forest’s sustainability, “Our community has agreed not to convert the forest to a field of crops. The people are allowed to use the forest resources only for personal use.”

“Innovation is one of the keys to driving the welfare of the community and to protect our environment. Our products should add-value and help increase the income for the local people with a sensible use of the natural resources,” said Dra. Yosepha Hasnah, M.Si., Sintang District Government’s Secretary.

”We have made all efforts necessary to voice the aspirations of the people of Ensaid Panjang to conserve their forest. Collaboration and advocacy will keep moving us forward to take care the environment because it will take care of us,” said dr. H. Jarot Winarno, M.Med PH, Sintang District Head.

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Writing by Enggi Dewanti