Preserving the Karo Ulos: A Traditional Weaving Legacy Since the 14th Century

In Kampung Ulos, Berastagi, Karo Regency, the sound of weaving looms is not just the rhythm of work, but a sign that a tradition passed down since the 14th century continues to thrive. Amidst the development of the modern textile industry, artisans in Berastagi persist in maintaining traditional weaving techniques as part of cultural preservation. Each piece of ulos is meticulously crafted through a manual weaving process, a skill handed down from generation to generation in Kampung Ulos Berastagi. The woven ulos are marketed at prices ranging from Rp150,000 to Rp850,000 per piece, providing a source of livelihood while also serving as an effort to ensure the continuity of the tradition. For the Karo people, ulos is not merely a piece of cloth, but a symbol of respect, affection, and a cultural identity that is continuously upheld to this day.