PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) is strengthening its commitment to women’s empowerment through the “Weaving Goodness for Indonesia” program on Solor Island, East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). To date, the program has reached more than 430 women who weave lontar leaves across 13 locations, while also promoting improved product quality and the well-being of the local community.
BNI Corporate Secretary Okki Rushartomo said that this initiative, which has been underway since September 2024, is designed as a sustainable empowerment program, covering production training, strengthening economic institutions, and health education.
“Through the ‘Weaving Goodness for Indonesia’ program, BNI aims to provide sustainable empowerment for women, particularly in 3T regions. We believe that when women are empowered, their families and surrounding communities will also thrive,” said Okki in an official statement.
Solor Island has long been known for its limited arable land, yet it holds economic potential in the form of traditional palm-leaf weaving, a craft passed down through generations. The majority of the artisans are homemakers who serve as the economic backbone of their families, despite facing challenges related to market access, product quality standards, and financial literacy.
Through its collaboration with the Du Anyam Foundation, BNI has built an integrated empowerment ecosystem. As a result, 79% of woven products now fall into the high-quality category, reflecting a significant improvement in both production and quality standards.
In addition to expanding business capacity, BNI has also developed supporting infrastructure, including the Rumah Anyam in Bubu Atagamu Village, South Solor District, which serves as a training and production center. The company has also provided access to clean water through the installation of a piped water system with 30 taps, benefiting 263 households.
On the social front, BNI contributed to addressing stunting through a Supplementary Feeding Program (PMT) for 98 toddlers over a 14-day period, which successfully reduced the rate of malnutrition by 10.20%.
To ensure the program’s sustainability, BNI also facilitated the establishment of the Ina Senaren Multi-Purpose Cooperative (KSU). “Through this cooperative, women not only serve as artisans but also as entrepreneurs capable of managing businesses, expanding market access, and utilizing formal financial services,” added Okki.
This program reflects BNI’s comprehensive approach to community empowerment, integrating economic, social, and cultural aspects. These efforts also strengthen the role of women as drivers of the local economy in underdeveloped regions.
Through this initiative, BNI underscores that women’s empowerment not only leads to increased income but also fosters independence and social resilience within communities. The women weavers in NTT are now not only preserving traditions but also emerging as economic actors capable of improving the well-being of their families and communities.