Merauke, Jubi – The South Papua provincial government has launched a crochet training program for Indigenous Papuan women as part of efforts to strengthen skills, promote economic independence, and preserve local cultural traditions.
The training, organized by the South Papua Office of Social Affairs, Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, began in Merauke Regency on Wednesday (July 8, 2026).
Agustinus Joko Guritno, Assistant for Government and People’s Welfare at the South Papua Provincial Secretariat, said the program forms part of the provincial government’s broader women’s empowerment initiatives.
He said developing practical skills is an important step toward strengthening women’s role in both social and economic life.
“Women and men are entitled to equal rights and opportunities. That is why the government continues to promote women’s participation through various programs and initiatives,” Guritno said while opening the training.
He said the provincial government remains committed to expanding women’s empowerment programs through the development of the creative economy.
According to Guritno, crochet has strong potential as an income-generating skill while also helping preserve local cultural heritage.
He added that crochet offers benefits beyond producing handicrafts, saying the activity can support mental well-being by reducing anxiety, improving concentration, encouraging patience, and helping build self-confidence.
Guritno said fiber-based handicrafts have long been part of the cultural traditions of communities across South Papua. In the province’s four regencies—Merauke, Boven Digoel, Mappi, and Asmat—people have for generations produced traditional items made from natural fibers, including noken (traditional bags) and other customary handicrafts.
“Traditional weaving and fiber craft, including the making of ceremonial clothing, loincloths, koteka, and noken, have been passed down from generation to generation,” he said.
He expressed hope that the training would not only improve participants’ technical skills but also contribute to preserving cultural traditions inherited from previous generations.
Guritno said crochet skills could be developed into sustainable small businesses capable of increasing household incomes.
He also encouraged the South Papua Office of Social Affairs, Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection to work closely with other government agencies and relevant institutions to ensure participants receive continued business mentoring, promotional support, and access to markets after completing the training.
“Through stronger partnerships, these handmade products can reach wider markets and provide economic benefits for local artisans,” he said.
He also called for locally made crochet products to be marketed under registered brands and protected through intellectual property rights to improve their quality and competitiveness.
The two-day training program, held from July 8 to 9, brings together Indigenous Papuan women from across South Papua.
The provincial government hopes participants will be able to build sustainable creative businesses from the skills they acquire, contributing to women’s economic empowerment throughout the region. (*)
