14 August 2025
Syafrijal S.Kom
The existence of cultural heritage is increasingly being eroded by the flow of modernization along with the development of information technology. One cultural heritage under serious threat in North Sumatra is the Batak ethnic woven cloth known as Ulos.
This was conveyed by cultural observers and academics in the Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of North Sumatra, Dr. Dra., Rytha Tambunan, MSI, and Dr. Drs. Irfan, M.Si., while mentoring the weaving community in Pansur Napitu Village, Siatas Barita District, Tarutung, North Tapanuli Regency.
"Batak woven fabric is not just fabric, but a cultural work rich in meaning. Motifs such as Ragi Hidup, Sadum, Bintang Maratur, and Tumtuman hold deep philosophy within each piece. Today, woven fabrics are not only used in traditional ceremonies but are also being modified into modern clothing such as jackets, dresses, and shirts," said Rytha in a written statement on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
Rytha explained that the practice of weaving among Batak women is a knowledge and skill acquired informally. Batak women have been passed down from their parents from a young age.
"From childhood, girls are accustomed to helping their parents, from preparing thread until they eventually become proficient at weaving themselves," she said.
Rytha said that currently, according to data obtained from the village head, the number of weavers in Pansur Napitu is 256. This number demonstrates the continued interest among young people in following in their parents' footsteps as weavers.
"The majority of weavers still sell their work directly to traditional markets (onan) or through middlemen," she said.
According to Rytha, mentoring from various groups, such as that conducted by the USU Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) academic community, which involves students, is something that must be continuously intensified. Besides being part of community service as stated in the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, this kind of initiative is also crucial for providing input to weavers in developing their woven fabric businesses. This way, this cultural heritage will be preserved.
"In this digital era, the enthusiasm of the women weavers in Tarutung is clear evidence that traditions can remain alive and effective, as long as they receive support and space to develop. Now, it's time for local traditions to gain an equal place in the national creative industry map," said Rytha Tambunan.
https://www.rmolsumut.id/akademimisi-usu-lakukan-pendampingan-perempuan-penenun-di-pansur-napitu-tarutung
