‘Tenun Ikat’ fashion show brings Indonesian heritage to life

AMMAN — Colours and textures were the centre of attention at a fashion show organised on Tuesday by the Indonesian Embassy in Amman to introduce its ancestral handicraft arts of “Tenun” (woven fabric) through a process called “Ikat”, according to an embassy statement. 

“Tenun Ikat is becoming popular among fashion designers around the world for its unique designs and vibrant colours,” Indonesian Ambassador to Jordan Andy Rachmianto said in his remarks at the event, according to the statement. 

He also emphasised that “the Indonesian government is committed to promote cultural exchange, as well as people-to-people contact, to celebrate our 70 years of diplomatic ties in 2020”. 

Around 200 guests were treated to a display of the Tenun Ikat outfits, which ranged from formal to casual wear. Among the guests were the Director of Asia and Oceania Affairs at the Foreign Ministry Malek Twal, ambassadors of ASEAN member states and President of the Jordan Indonesian Friendship Association Luay Khasman.

The term of “ikat” refers to a binding method for the making of clothes that has been passed through generations and is still in use today. The technique is practised in many parts of Indonesia and each region has their own techniques, weaving patterns and motifs, the statement said.

More than 20 combinations of Tenun Ikat fabrics, with various designs and origins, were presented by Jordanian models, and attracted the attention of some Jordanian fashion designers who were present at the show. 

Tenun Ikat is not only used in its original form as a formal and ceremonial fabric for dresses. As it grows in popularity, Tenun Ikat is also being integrated into people's daily wardrobes, and many fashion designers try to combine the authenticity and traditional style of Tenun Ikat with the form of modern cut and contemporary style, the statement said. 

For the past two years, the Indonesian Embassy has organised fashion shows to introduce the country’s cultural heritage in producing traditional textiles by inviting famous Indonesian designers to showcase their work.

“This cultural event is intended to make Jordanians know more and better understand Indonesian heritage,” Rachmianto was quoted in the statement as saying.