In the heart of Batak culture, the tandok woven basket holds deep ceremonial significance, traditionally handwoven from natural materials to serve as a symbol of generosity and community. However, this cherished craft is at risk, as many have replaced these authentic baskets with less expensive, mass-produced plastic versions imported from China. We are working to rekindle a connection to their heritage by encouraging local people to return to the beautiful, traditional tandok. Our initiative aims to revive this ancestral craft, not only preserving a vital part of their cultural identity but also empowering local artisans and promoting a sustainable alternative to imported plastic goods. Embracing the traditional tandok is a way to honour the past and invest in a more sustainable future for the community.
This year, we’re partnering with local volunteers to support local artisans in the Lake Toba region to promote their incredible craft of sustainable basketry. By focusing on products made from natural, locally-sourced materials, we are helping to preserve traditional weaving techniques that have been passed down for generations. This collaboration not only empowers the artisans economically but also highlights the cultural heritage of the Batak Toba people, offering a unique blend of artistry, tradition, and environmental consciousness. Each basket tells a story, connecting consumers with the rich history and beautiful landscapes of Lake Toba while supporting a vibrant, sustainable community.
With their generously sized gardens, many homes in the Lake Toba region have the potential to become models of self-sufficiency, and on this occasion, we hope to work with local homeowners to help them transform their dormant gardens into thriving, productive spaces. The goal is to encourage them to cultivate their own vegetables, fruits, and herbs, promoting a sustainable lifestyle that reduces reliance on external food sources. This initiative not only enhances food security for individual households but also strengthens the community’s connection to the land and its resources, fostering a more resilient and self-reliant local food system.
