Strategi dan Inovasi Usaha Tenun Songket dalam Peningkatan Kesejahteraan dan Perekonomian Masyarakat (Studi Etnografi Desa Padang Genting Kecamatan Talawi Kabupaten Batubara)

Abstract

The welfare of the community through the management of woven fabrics can maintain the values and traditions of the ancestors so that the culture and diversity laid down are not eroded by time. Woven fabrics are expected to be one of the solutions in lifting the economy in the community, especially in the village of Padang Genting, Talawi District, Batubara regency. The songket cloth business that has long been produced in Padang Genting is considered as one of the traditional forms of coal Malay crafts that must be developed. This study aims to determine the strategy and innovation of woven fabric motifs carried out by woven fabric craftsmen in Padang Genting Village, Talawi District, Batubara regency. The research method used in this study is a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques using observation techniques, in-depth interviews and documentation. Informants of this study amounted to 6 (six) people who are business owners and craftsmen of woven fabrics in the village of Padang Genting. The results showed that the variety of motifs of coal Malay weaving is quite diverse but, the most sought after motif of consumers is the motif of 'Pucuk Rebung'. Strategy and innovation seen from the economic aspect obtained by the production aspect shows the production of woven fabrics according to consumer demand by providing flexibility in the development of motives; the distribution aspect of woven fabrics in Padang Genting village involves several methods, including direct sales, delivery services, cooperation with local stores, and the use of social media; and the consumption aspect shows that the success of woven fabric craftsmen in maintaining their business depends on the extent to which they can meet consumer demand and needs. The role of weaving business in the community economy as a source of earning a living that is flexible and can be done by housewives in addition to spending money, and has become a declining tradition that is maintained by mothers who participate as weavers. In every aspect of the economy that has been presented, craftsmen openly accept input to increase the diversity of woven fabric motifs as a form of innovation to meet consumer demand.