Indonesian minister hails tenun exhibition for boosting culture and economy

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, lauded a traditional weaving exhibition and fashion show in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), as a vital initiative for safeguarding national culture and stimulating economic activity. The event, titled "Exotic Tenun: Parade Tenun dan Fashion Show," was held in Atambua and celebrated the region's rich heritage of woven fabrics.

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This event can preserve the nation's culture.

Karnavian expressed his deep appreciation for the organizers, emphasizing that the parade does more than just preserve tenun as a cultural legacy. He highlighted its role in fostering creativity among local designers and artists, driving economic growth, and enhancing the appeal of Belu as a tourist destination. "Tonight is a festival of tenun. We have seen the fashion show, and now there is an exhibition. I respect this event," Karnavian stated.

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Tonight is a festival of tenun. We have seen the fashion show, and now there is an exhibition. I respect this event.

He noted that the ability to create such intricate textiles is not universal, underscoring the importance of events like this to prevent cultural appropriation. "We must preserve our culture through festivals and events like these," he urged, adding that NTT's cultural offerings, including music and fashion shows, provide a platform for artistic expression.

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We must preserve our culture through festivals and events like these.

The minister also pointed out the positive impact on the community, noting how the event allows students from elementary to high school levels to showcase their confidence by wearing locally made tenun garments. He expressed confidence that promoting such cultural tourism globally would attract more visitors, filling hotels and restaurants, and significantly boosting the region's original local revenue (PAD) alongside its natural attractions. The parade itself included participants from various educational levels and a general category, showcasing the widespread engagement with this traditional craft.

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I am sure that with this event, hotels will be full, flights will be full. So restaurants will also likely be full. So much can be revived.