The charm of the traditional woven fabric of the Iban people in Ensaid Panjae

Tourists carefully observe the woven ikat of Ensaid Panyae.

If you visit Sintang, West Kalimantan, be sure to stop by Ensaid Village. For those who appreciate cultural art, this place is the hub of authentic handmade crafts by the local inhabitants. This includes the woven fabric, which is a product of the art and culture of the Dayak tribe in Ensaid Panjang Village, Sintang Regency, West Borneo.

The creative process begins with the selection of the main raw material, which is cotton fiber. In the past, the Dayak people utilized high-quality local woven fabric material. It comes from the fibers of forest pineapples, known for their excellent threads.

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After the fabric material is harvested, the next step is to wash and bleach it to remove dirt and stains. The clean thread fibers are then dyed using natural dyes derived from plants.

The process of making this ikat fabric isn't just about coloring the cotton threads; it also holds deep philosophical meaning. The dyed threads are then hand-spun by experienced weavers, who combine them according to the designed patterns. These patterns reflect cultural values, myths, and the relationship between humans and their surrounding environment.

The next step is the tying process, where the cotton threads are tied according to the predetermined patterns. This process is key in creating unique and valuable ikat woven fabric.

Once the threads are tied, they are woven using traditional weaving tools. This process requires high skill and precision, as weavers need to ensure that the desired patterns are well-formed.

The finished ikat woven fabric is then dried in the sun. After drying, it undergoes finishing processes such as trimming the edges and other details.

The philosophy within the ikat fabric of Ensaid PanyaeVillage reflects the close connection between humans and their environment. The patterns on the woven fabric depict spiritual meanings, myths, and Dayak cultural values.

The competitive advantage lies in the production process of authentic Dayak ikat weaving, which still relies on natural thread and dyes derived from plants, and the entire process is done using traditional methods known as "kain besuoh." Some motifs may depict nature, animals, or plants that are significant in the daily life of the Dayak tribe. Ikat woven fabric is often used in traditional ceremonies and holds a sacred significance in the lives of the Dayak community.

The potential of ikat woven fabric from Ensaid Panjang Village is significant. Besides being a valuable cultural product, it can also support sustainable tourism in Sintang Regency. Tourists may be interested in understanding the process of making ikat fabric, comprehending the philosophy behind its designs, and purchasing ikat products as souvenirs.

The production of ikat fabric can also be a primary source of income for the local community, helping to preserve Dayak culture and aligning with environmental awareness due to its use of natural materials and lack of environmental pollution.

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Ikat fabric from Ensaid has its own uniqueness in design, color, and philosophy embodied in each fabric. Each motif may depict stories, myths, or Dayak cultural values that are appealing to buyers seeking authentic and valuable art. Ensure that the production quality remains high, so the woven fabric is durable and long-lasting.

The philosophy within the ikat fabric of Ensaid PanyaeVillage reflects the close connection between humans and their environment. The patterns on the woven fabric depict spiritual meanings, myths, and Dayak cultural values.

What sets the Ensaid ikat fabric tourism apart is the story of the ikat fabric-making process, including the steps involved, the Dayak community's role in preserving their cultural heritage, and the positive impact that purchasing ikat fabric has on the local community.

The motifs used in Ensaid ikat fabric vary and are all done manually.

All the steps involved in producing Ensaid ikat fabric are done manually using traditional weaving tools made of wood and bamboo, known as "gedokan."

The production of a single piece of fabric, be it kebat or tating size (similar to a tablecloth), usually takes about one month. However, if the goal is to make a kumbu-sized fabric (similar to a blanket), the process can take up to six months.

The motifs used in Ensaid ikat fabric have strong ties to the traditions and inspiration derived from the surroundings of the Sintang community. These motifs are often inspired by elements such as plants, animals, rivers, forests, and other integral parts of the daily life of the Ensaid community in Sintang.

Uniquely, these motifs have been passed down from older generations of artisans to younger generations. While new motifs may occasionally emerge, the motif style remains rooted in previous traditions, maintaining a highly traditional character.

In addition to that, you can find the exquisite woven ikat fabrics produced by Ensaid Panyae being sold in various hotel boutiques in and around Sintang. Consider yourself fortunate if you have the opportunity to visit one of the traditional longhouses in the region, as they often keep these textiles in stock. However, please be prepared for the possibility that they might run out due to high demand, so a bit of patience may be required if you wish to acquire one.

What's truly remarkable about Ensaid Panyae is that their community thrives by harmoniously coexisting with nature and preserving the rich cultural artistry of the Iban subgroup within the village. They are a unique example in the world, as not many ethnic groups have managed to strike such a balance between living off the land and preserving their cultural heritage

The Advantages of Traditional Products
What are the competitive advantages of Ensaid Panjang ikat weaving?

The competitive advantage lies in the production process of authentic Dayak ikat weaving, which still relies on natural thread and dyes derived from plants, and the entire process is done using traditional methods known as "kain besuoh."

The coloring of this fabric uses various natural materials such as leaves, roots, bark, fruit, tubers, and seeds extracted from plants. For example, materials like madder, jerenang, leban wood leaves, tarum flowers, and similar items are often used.

In contrast, modern ikat weaving often uses pre-made threads and chemical dyes without following the customary procedures known as "kain mata."

Ensaid Panjang ikat weaving is distinct from other places. Don't believe anyone who merely tells you about it. See the facts for yourself in the field.

How to reach Ensaid Panyae?
From Pontianak, you have two alternative routes. Firstly, you can take the aerial route from Supadio Airport in Pontianak directly to Tebelian Airport in Sintang. The flight takes just 30 minutes to reach Sintang, and from Tebelian Airport, you can take a land vehicle to Ensaid Panyae in approximately 40 minutes. 

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Alternatively, if you choose the overland route from Pontianak, you will cover a distance of around 345 kilometers from the city of Pontianak, with a travel time of approximately 7-8 hours. 

Which route would you choose? 

Both of them have their own charm and uniqueness. (Rangkaya Bada)