Since 2024, the *Festival Tas Nusantara* (Archipelago Bag Festival)—or FesTaRa—has been held annually in Solo every June. This event is particularly compelling because it fosters a deeper public appreciation for authentic Indonesian bags and highlights local materials—often previously overlooked—that were historically used by our ancestors to craft them. These materials include *mendong* (sedge), pandan, rattan, bemban, purun, and various other grass-like plants known for their strong fibers; they require specialized weaving techniques to be shaped into functional vessels—such as bags or baskets—suitable for carrying everything from clothing and vegetables to groceries and stationery in daily life, with names that vary according to their region of origin.
Over the course of the three editions of FesTaRa, a wealth of knowledge and ideas has been shared through various discussions, workshops, and exhibitions. Visitors have had the opportunity to see the characteristics and creation processes of bags and baskets from diverse regions, as well as learn about preserving the cultural practices of high-quality material processing and weaving. The festival highlights the extraordinary richness of the Indonesian archipelago and demonstrates the immense creativity of local artisans in crafting bags and baskets in a wide array of styles, sizes, and functions. These weaving traditions serve as the foundation for the creation of new products that blend various elements into high-value, creative pieces.
One of theme is the CAWAN Bags products, which utilizes rattan combined with woven fabric and leather. Inspired by a visit to this festival in 2024, the CAWAN Bags brand was launched later that same year—just months after the event took place. Naturally, the product development process incorporated insights gained through interactions, references, and the preferences of the target market.
Ultimately, the Handbag Anjani —created by CAWAN Bags—was showcased at the 2026 Nusantara Bag Festival. It was a source of great pride for CAWAN Bags to be invited to participate by the festival’s organizer, Mataya Heritage. Hopefully, the Handbag Anjani model will instill a sense of pride in its owners, as it incorporates materials crafted by skilled rattan weavers in Central Kalimantan and features embellishments by artisans whose work reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Indonesian archipelago.
