About the Himpunan Wastraprema

The Himpunan Wastraprema is a Jakarta-based association of collectors and researchers of traditional textiles with a membership of approximately 200 individuals from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. The association was established on June 28, 1976, and inaugurated by the Governor of the Greater Jakarta Area at the time, Mr. Ali Sadikin.

The name “Wastraprema” is derived from Sanskrit: wastra meaning cloth and prema meaning admirers. Himpunan Wastraprema is also known as the Indonesian Traditional Textile Society, a nonprofit non-governmental organization with a strong socio-cultural affiliation. The organization is also
a partner and supporter of the Jakarta Textile Museum.

Wastraprema’s logo depicts a canting, a drawing tool for wax, and a teropong, a shuttle, featuring batik and weaving tools for the creation of Indonesian traditional textiles.

The society’s main objectives are to enhance and encourage the appreciation and the preservation of traditional Indonesian textiles. Besides conducting studies of traditional textile, it also disseminates knowledge on textile art. The organization has conducted numerous activities including exhibitions, lectures, seminars and cultural excursions to textile centers. One of the main programs of Himpunan Wastraprema is the recently-launched traditional textile cultural school program which is expected to generate interest for Indonesia’s rich textile heritage among the younger generation.

The founding members of the organization are: Mrs. Lasmidjah Hardi, Gusti Putri Mangkunegoro VII, Mrs. Herawati Diah, Mrs. Sekartini Sofyar, Mrs. Sulasmini Syahfiri Alim, Mr. H. Safioen, Mr. Ida Anak Agung Gde Agung, Mr. Soedarmadji Damais, Mr. Ir. Martono.