CTI Partners with Three Young Brands to Introduce Nusantara Weaving

The Cita Tenun Indonesia (CTI) association is once again bringing Nusantara weaving to the fashion stage through a fashion show titled LUNGSARA, part of the 20th Fashion Nation event to be held at Senayan City, Jakarta, on Wednesday (23/09/2026). This year, CTI is introducing three types of weaving from different regions: Baduy weaving from Banten, Endek and Rangrang from Bali, and Sobi weaving from Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi.

These fabrics have been transformed into fashion collections by three young brands: Saroong Atelier, OTHMAN, and KMK by Karel Karuniawan. Syamsidar Isa, Quality Control Manager of Cita Tenun Indonesia, stated that selecting different textiles every year is part of CTI’s effort to introduce Indonesia’s rich weaving heritage to a wider audience.

“Every year we choose different textiles. This year, we are highlighting Baduy, Endek, Rangrang, and Wajo weaving,” Syamsidar said during a media briefing on Thursday (17/09/2026).

According to him, CTI is also attempting to broaden its approach this year by partnering with brands, rather than just designers. This step is expected to help more fashion industry players understand the character and potential of Nusantara weaving, ensuring its continued use in their collections.

“We want brands to better understand Indonesian textiles. The hope is that they will more frequently create collections using Indonesian weaves,” he said.

Syamsidar noted that introducing weaving to consumers in major cities, particularly Jakarta, is vital for the sustainability of the weaving industry and the livelihoods of artisans. He argued that if the market for weaving remains limited to the regions of origin, the opportunity to improve artisans’ welfare remains constrained.

“CTI cannot stop; we must continue to introduce weaving works. If consumers in Jakarta become familiar with them, the value of these weaves can rise. Otherwise, weaving will only sell to local residents, which does not improve the lives of the artisans,” Syamsidar added.

Through LUNGSARA, each brand presents a different approach to the traditional fabrics used. Saroong Atelier is presenting 12 women’s outfits that blend 3D Balinese Endek with Rangrang weaving from Nusa Penida. The 3D Balinese Endek features embossed motifs, while Rangrang is known for its geometric zig-zag patterns and perforated effects.