Indonesia seeks to strengthen Batak ulos industry

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Industry Minister Muhammad Sarmuji has called for the development of ulos cloth, a traditional Bataknese woven fabric, through a stronger traditional weaving industry ecosystem to boost the competitiveness and economic value of Indonesian cultural heritage.

Attending the Ulos Weaving Fabric Exhibition in Jakarta on Tuesday, Sarmuji said ulos development needs to go hand in hand with cultural preservation so the product stays relevant to the times and provides economic benefits to the community, especially artisans.

Sarmuji said ulos not only has economic value, but also carries cultural and social values that reflect the identity of the Batak people and the diversity of the Indonesian nation.

According to data from the Ministry of Industry, there are currently 43 ulos weaving centers in several districts and cities in North Sumatra Province, including North Tapanuli, Toba, and Simalungun. The centers indicate that ulos has a production base that can continue to be developed.

He assessed that ulos development opportunities are also supported by a domestic market that is increasingly open to local products.

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According to Sarmuji, besides being used in various stages of Batak life, ulos has now been developed into ready-to-wear clothing, fashion accessories, interior decoration products, and souvenirs.

However, the ulos industry still faces several challenges, among them the sustainability of weaving skills, artisan regeneration, young people's interest, product quality improvement, design innovation, and businesses' ability to keep up with market needs.

To address these challenges, the ministry is committed to strengthening the traditional weaving fabric industry ecosystem through human resource development and entrepreneurship facilitation for small and medium industries, protection of regional signature products through geographical indications, and increased capacity and productivity of industrial centers.

Sarmuji added that the weaved fabric industry's potential is also reflected in its export performance. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data, Indonesia's ikat-woven fabric exports in 2025 reached US$28,000.

Meanwhile, in the first half of 2026, the value reached US$34,000, up significantly from US$13,600 in the same period of 2025.

He expressed hope that ulos development can open wider market opportunities while improving artisans' welfare and strengthening community economic self-reliance.

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Translator: Ahmad, Kenzu
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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