The Faculty of Humanities, Universitas Indonesia (FIB UI) continued the Sumba Cultural Symphony series for the 86th Anniversary of FIB UI by presenting a public lecture by the Regent of West Sumba, Yohanis Dade, S.H., on October 6, 2025. In this opportunity, the Regent emphasized the importance of West Sumba ikat weaving as a cultural heritage that holds philosophical values, the dignity of women, and creative economic potential.
Regent Yohanis Dade explained that Sumba ikat weaving is not just a piece of cloth, but a cross-generational work born from the hands of Sumba women as guardians of civilization. Weaving is present in various traditional rituals, from marriage and death to the Marapu ritual. In addition, ikat weaving has now developed into a modern fashion product that provides economic added value to rural communities.
The West Sumba Regency Government also encourages cultural preservation through policies requiring civil servants and students to wear ikat weaving, as well as making it the region’s official souvenir. The Karaja motif, one of the leading products, has even been positioned as a high-end, environmentally friendly product worthy of entering the global market.
In addition to being a cultural symbol, ikat weaving also has a very important social function. In traditional customs, woven fabrics are used as a sign of peace, a form of respect, and even as part of major traditional ceremonies such as Pasola and Wulla Poddu. Its presence is proof that fabric is not just a cultural artifact, but a universal language that unites the people of Sumba across generations.
The Dean of FIB UI, Dr. Bondan Kanumoyoso, S.S., M.Hum. called this public lecture clear evidence that culture is both a legacy and an inspiration. “The presence of the Regent of West Sumba further emphasizes the importance of Sumba in the mosaic of Indonesian culture, while inspiring the younger generation to preserve and develop their cultural heritage,” he said.
The general public can also attend various activities and exhibitions under the theme of the Sumba Cultural Symphony from October 6–10, 2025, at the FIB UI Auditorium Soe Hoek Gie, Gedung IX – Sapardi Djoko Damono, Further information about the FIB UI anniversary series can be obtained from Instagram.
With the Sumba Cultural Symphony series, FIB UI not only celebrated its 86th anniversary but also reinforced its role as a cultural campus that builds a bridge of knowledge between local traditions and global discourse. This interdisciplinary dialogue is expected to spark public awareness of the importance of preserving and innovating the culture of the archipelago amid the tide of modernization.
