The Charm of Sasirangan: From Ancestral Heritage to Modern Silhouettes at the Nusantara Textile Parade 2025

Kapanlagi.com - Traditional fabrics of Indonesia always possess a unique charm that makes them special in the eyes of fashion lovers. One of them is Sasirangan, a distinctive textile from South Kalimantan that opened the Nusantara Textile Parade 2025 on Friday (8/8/2025). With unique motifs and a production process full of philosophy, Sasirangan has become a symbol of pride for the Banjar community, passed down through generations.

This year, the presence of Sasirangan at the Nusantara Textile Parade 2025 feels special. Not only is it showcased, but this fabric is also presented in the form of edgy and contemporary fashion designed by designer Irma Joenawinata. The combination of traditional motifs with modern cuts results in captivating works, proving that textiles can compete in the global market without losing their identity.

The process of natural dyeing, intricate tie-dye techniques, and the philosophy behind the motifs rich in meaning are the main strengths of this work. “We want Sasirangan to be recognized not only as a cultural heritage but also as a work that is relevant in today's fashion world,” said the Chairwoman of the South Kalimantan Dekranasda, Hj. Fahtul Jannah Muhidin, during the Textile Story session on the first day of the Nusantara Textile Parade 2025.

Sasirangan is the traditional cloth of the Banjar tribe in South Kalimantan made using the resist or jelujur technique. The process begins with sewing the fabric parts according to the pattern using thread, then tying it to form the motifs. After that, the fabric is dipped using natural or synthetic dyes that enrich its appearance.

In addition to its aesthetic value, Sasirangan also holds significant historical and cultural meaning. In the traditions of the Banjar people, this fabric is even believed to possess magical powers, used in healing and various customary ceremonies.

1. Support from Central to Regional

The journey of Sasirangan to the international stage is inseparable from the support of the central and regional governments. Mrs. Neli Yana, Director of Crafts from the Ministry of Creative Economy, emphasized that textiles are an important asset in the growth of the creative economy.

“A great nation is one that values its history. For us, these textiles are power. They are part of crafts, and crafts are a subsector contributing to GDP, employment, investment, and the largest exports in the creative economy sector,” she explained.

Neli added that the government has various programs to equip artisans.

“We have mentoring, facilitation, and even help MSMEs onboard to e-commerce. We also reach out to textile warriors in various regions, and we at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy do not act alone,” she stated.

2. Adapting to Global Trends

The South Kalimantan Provincial Government realizes that in order for Sasirangan to remain competitive, innovation that keeps up with the times is necessary. “Now is the era of social media. We collaborate with various parties so that artisans can follow trends and reach national and even international markets,” said Mrs. Fathul.

Collaboration with renowned designers is a strategic step. The Nusantara Textile Parade is a meeting between the South Kalimantan Provincial Government and designer IFC Irmasari Joedawinata. This designer from Bandung has been entrusted to transform Sasirangan fabric into a collection that combines tradition with modern touches. Previously, designer Ayu Dyah Andari had also worked on Sasirangan, proving that this fabric is flexible across various styles.

In the Harmonious Textile session, Sasirangan fabric was transformed into a series of fashion collections titled Echoes of Borneo, created by designer Irmasari Joedawinata. Irmasari applied Sasirangan fabric into 10 edgy, modern fashion looks, with feminine touches thanks to seamless balloon accents. Irmasari also presented several jacket silhouettes as an interpretation of the meaning of ‘safety’ represented in Sasirangan fabric.

Hj. Fathul Jannah closed the Selaras Wastra fashion show with an edgy and stylish performance. Irma created a long black lace dress with a wide skirt. It was layered with a long outer garment made of bright pink and green Sasirangan fabric with feminine trumpet sleeves.

Sasirangan is becoming increasingly known around the world. “We want the quality of the artisans to continue to improve, the market to expand, and for Sasirangan to truly go international,” said Hj. Fathul Jannah.

3. From Banjarmasin to the World Stage

Through the Nusantara Textiles Parade stage, Sasirangan is presented not only as beautiful fabric but as a cultural identity packaged in world-class fashion works. Supported by artisans, the government, and designer creativity, Sasirangan is now stepping towards the international spotlight, bringing a proud story of Indonesia.

The presence of Sasirangan on the international stage is also a source of pride for the people of South Kalimantan. Hj. Fathul Jannah, as a representative from the region, hopes this momentum can create a sustainable positive impact. “Hopefully in the future South Kalimantan will be even more successful in nurturing local SMEs and the workforce around them,” she said.

Read more Nusantara Textiles news at Liputan6.com.

(kpl/phi)