BCA's Bakti Elevates Natural Dye Weaving to the International Stage
PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting culture-based businesses in penetrating global markets. Through the Creating Shared Value (CSV) programme, Bakti BCA, in partnership with the Natural Colours Association (WARLAMI), is presenting natural dye woven products at the Tenun Exhibition in Indonesia House Amsterdam (IHA), Netherlands, running from 24 April to 15 September 2026.
The exhibition, opened by Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Netherlands, Mariska Dwianti Dhanutirto, serves as a strategic moment to introduce Indonesia’s rich textile heritage to the world. The event is attended by the diaspora, creative economy players, and international communities, potentially opening new networks for natural dye woven products.
Beyond displaying works, the exhibition includes various educational activities, such as talkshows on the development of natural dyes and sustainable practices, as well as hands-on experiences in natural dyeing for visitors. These agendas are expected to facilitate knowledge exchange, particularly regarding the potential of natural dye plants thriving in Indonesia.
On this occasion, Bakti BCA is featuring one of its local champions, Kornelius Ndapakamang, a weaver from East Sumba. He is demonstrating distinctive dyeing techniques using red and blue colours that represent Sumba’s cultural identity, while also conducting workshops for visitors.
Kornelius stated that participation in this international exhibition opens significant opportunities for local weavers to expand their markets. According to him, the use of natural dyes not only preserves cultural heritage but also supports environmental sustainability due to their eco-friendly nature.
“We are grateful to Bakti BCA for helping to market natural colour weaves to the international level. This support also encourages innovation, such as developing derivative products like clothing and bags that increase selling value,” he said.
He also hopes that natural dyeing practices can continue to be passed down to the younger generation, one of which is through integration into education.
BCA’s EVP of Corporate Communication & Social Responsibility, Hera F. Haryn, emphasised that participation in this exhibition is part of the company’s sustainable commitment to supporting the weaving ecosystem, especially amid the rising trend of eco-friendly fashion. “We hope this exhibition can open broader opportunities, both in cultural preservation, business development, and improving community welfare,” said Hera.
Bakti BCA’s natural colour textile empowerment programme is currently running in several regions such as South Central Timor, Baduy, East Sumba, and North Sumatra. Throughout 2025, the programme recorded an increase in weavers’ income of more than Rp367 million, or 34% annual growth, in line with rising interest in sustainable fashion products.
In addition to strengthening market access, Bakti BCA also contributes to maintaining the sustainability of raw materials through the planting of cotton and natural dye plants like indigofera in various assisted areas. The programme also includes product quality standardisation and institutional strengthening through the formation of weavers’ cooperatives.
Hera added that involvement in the Amsterdam exhibition is expected not only to introduce products but also to expand global understanding of sustainable production practices based on local culture. “This is part of our efforts to preserve cultural heritage while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” she concluded.