HUI Empowering Katingan Weavers with IRSC
Harmoni Usaha Indonesia (HUI) is pioneering in the weaving industry, collaborating with over 7,500 home-based weavers in Central Java. HUI Empowering Katingan Weavers Through Integrated Rattan Supply Chains, specifically in four sub-districts: Pulau Malan, Tasik Payawan, Tewang Sangalang Garing, and Katingan Hilir. The expected outcome is the establishment of 500 organized and legally recognized home-based artisans, with 80% being women, ensuring their social and environmental protection.
HUI’s business model integrates home-based rattan artisans as the third link in the rattan supply chain. The first stage involves rattan farmers, represented by the Katingan Rattan Farmers Association (P2RK). The second stage encompasses raw material processing in Hampangen. The third stage, the focus of the IRSC initiative, involves rattan artisans. The final, fourth stage, covers finishing and export.
As part of the IRSC, selected representatives from four community groups underwent intensive training at PT. HUI in Piyungan, Yogyakarta. This training centered on mold creation and rattan weaving techniques, equipping participants to become trainers for their respective groups in Kalimantan.
Upon completing their training in Yogyakarta, the trainers returned to Kalimantan and promptly conducted similar training sessions within their communities. These sessions covered mold creation and the entire rattan weaving process, culminating in market-ready products.
The Community Empowerment Initiative through IRSC, supported by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) via the Tropical Landscapes Grant Fund (TLGF), spans from August 2024 to April 2026. This program includes strengthening community identity, providing leadership and health training for female workers, and securing Forest Stewardship Council – Chain of Custody (FSC-CoC) certification to ensure responsible sourcing of forest products.
