SURIWEAVE: REVITALISING TRADITIONAL WEAVING THROUGH COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT IN PULAU SURI
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35631/IJEMP.935040Keywords:
Community Empowerment, Community Intervention, Cultural Heritage, Traditional Weaving, Pulau SuriAbstract
Traditional weaving is an important form of cultural heritage and a potential source of livelihood for rural women. However, previous studies have largely discussed craft preservation, entrepreneurship and market challenges separately, while limited attention has been given to how community empowerment may support both weaving continuity and women’s economic participation in Pulau Suri. This study explores how weaving-related challenges, community interventions and perceived empowerment outcomes are connected to the sustainability of traditional weaving in Pulau Suri. A qualitative case study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 20 participants selected purposively for their direct experience with weaving or local craft development, supported by field observation and document review. Data were analysed thematically. Five themes emerged: weaving as cultural identity and inherited knowledge; economic vulnerability; limited marketing and product visibility; digital exposure and youth involvement; and the need for continuous institutional and community support. Participants described weaving as a source of cultural identity and supplementary income, but irregular demand, weak market access and limited promotion constrained its economic value. They also perceived digital promotion, intergenerational skills transfer, collective marketing and sustained mentoring as important for improving visibility, participation and livelihood opportunities. The findings suggest that weaving sustainability is closely linked to empowerment through skills, market access, collective organisation and cultural continuity. Practical support should therefore involve local authorities, community organisations, NGOs, universities and craft-related agencies in coordinated training, market linkage, youth engagement and heritage preservation.
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