Sengkang Woven Silk is being Registered at Directorate General of Intellectual Property

JAKARTA: The protection upon Sengkang Woven Silk, a handicraft originating from Wajo, South Sulawesi, as a geographical indication product is currently being sought in the spirit of preserving Indonesian traditional knowledge as well as to increase its reputation that can also evoke the local economy.

The application was submitted by Silk Solution Center (SSC) on 20 December 2019 with the application number E-IG.15.2019.000020 and is currently under publication period. Prior to the issuance of certificate of geographical indication, the application will go through an examination process by the Directorate of Trademark and Geographical Indication, Directorate General of Intellectual Property, Ministry of Law and Human Rights of Republic of Indonesia (DGIP).

Most of the residents of Wajo are silkworm farmers and woven silk craftsmen. The well-known Sengkang Woven Silk has given an identity to Sengkang, as it is a city in Wajo notable for being one of woven silk trading centers in South Sulawesi.

The Silk was originally worn only at a special occasion by Bugis nobles. However, due to the increase of trade and tourism activities, it has now been widely commercialized as a souvenir from Tanah Wajo. As it is expensive, the silk is considered as a luxury item that can describe the social status of those who wears it.

According to the application, Sengkang Woven Silk is a proud handicraft among the Bugis tribe, who calls it as “sabbe”. Hence, they still use the silk as the material of their traditional clothing, especially the ones to be worn at traditional events and parties.

Sengkang Woven Silk has a distinguished quality compared to other woven silk. The traditional methods and tools used in weaving the silk contributes to the beauty reflected thereon. The color combination chosen also plays part in enhancing the elegance of the silk.

The main material of the thread used to weave the Sengkang Woven Silk comes from the bred of Bombyx Mori silkworm, which produces a smooth, soft, but not slippery silk thread.

The characteristics of Sengkang Woven Silk can be identified through its pattern, namely Ma'Lobang and Subbi. The Ma'Lobang is the origin of Sengkang Woven Silk’s pattern.

The pattern of Sengkang Woven Silk depicts human’s civility, or what Bugis people call as “alebbireng”, and an appreciation towards the preserved ancestral heritage. Moreover, it also portrays natural surroundings, daily phenomenon, as well as symbols which are identical to the Bugis’ beliefs.

Those characteristics makes Sengkang Woven Silk worthy to be registered and protected as a geographical indication product at the DGIP.(RKH/BDP - su)

For further information on the above law and tailored solution, please contact office@kk-advocates.com