Harianjogja.com, JOGJA—A total of 52 micro and small business (UMK) artisans in DIY received entrepreneurship training for five days. This program, organized by the Ministry of Transportation and the National Handicraft Council (Dekranas), aims to encourage artisans to improve the quality of their product designs.

"By providing knowledge on online business, such as website creation, social media utilization, and similar aspects, we hope DIY artisans can enhance their product design quality and packaging to meet the preferences of local, national, and global markets,” the statement read.

Dekranas supports and strives to improve the livelihoods of small and medium-sized business groups by encouraging all elements to be more creative. It ensures that SME craft businesses receive guidance through various training programs, particularly in design, creativity enhancement, and innovation. However, it remains committed to preserving traditional identities, making craft products more appealing, distinctive, and attractive.

"Some of Jogja’s signature crafts that attract attention include batik, bags, bracelets, necklaces, and other handmade products. Additionally, the region’s cultural diversity and artistic creativity make DIY a compelling destination for both domestic and international tourists,” it stated.

The Deputy Chairperson of Dekranasda DIY, GKBRA Adipati Paku Alam X, noted that creating new product designs requires ideas and creativity. Therefore, Dekranasda DIY fully supports training initiatives to enhance the quantity and quality of products related to design development. He agreed that developing new products and ensuring their acceptance in the market involves multiple stages.

"The success of an innovative and creative product depends greatly on the quality and collaboration between designers and UMK business owners,” he stated.

The Head of the Yogyakarta Center for Craft and Batik (BBKB), Titik Purwati Widowati, explained that the training was held at BBKB Yogyakarta and covered various craft product standards. The program took place from Tuesday (November 24, 2020) to Saturday (November 28, 2020). "We hope this will improve artisans’ productivity through technology adoption,” she said.

Source: Harian Jogja