From 18–24 August 2025, Tobatenun participated in the Indonesia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, presenting a curated collection that celebrates the revitalisation of Batak handwoven textiles. The showcase highlighted Tobatenun's ongoing commitment to preserving Batak weaving traditions through contemporary interpretations rooted in cultural meaning and sustainable craftsmanship.
Among the featured works was Tumtuman Motif Sederhana, a handwoven textile created using the Batak Toba songket, or jungkit, supplementary weft technique, which produces an almost identical appearance on both sides of the cloth. Traditionally, Ulos Tumtuman is associated with joyful ceremonies such as weddings, although it is also occasionally used during funerary rites. Its name derives from the Batak word ditumtumhon, meaning "to hold tightly", symbolising closeness and enduring bonds. Tobatenun's revitalised interpretation introduces sirat embellished with hand-strung beadwork, offering a contemporary expression while honouring the textile's traditional origins.
Tobatenun also presented Sadum Revitalisation, a reinterpretation of the vibrant red Ulos Sadum, whose colours symbolise vitality, joy, and familial warmth. Within Batak Toba tradition, Ulos Sadum is often bestowed as a meaningful gift upon honoured guests. Tobatenun's revitalised version reintroduces the complete traditional motif set against a bold black ground and enriched with colourful songket ornamentation. The work demonstrates how Batak handwoven textiles continue to evolve while preserving the cultural values embedded within their design.
Another featured creation was Bintang Maratur Revitalisation, named after the Batak phrase meaning "ordered stars". Traditionally woven using the ikat technique to produce crisp and harmonious geometric motifs, Ulos Bintang Maratur is commonly worn by women during significant ceremonial occasions, including pregnancy celebrations. Tobatenun's interpretation combines ikat and supplementary weft weaving to create raised decorative textures along the centre and borders of the textile, illustrating how Batak weaving traditions can be thoughtfully developed while remaining faithful to their cultural foundations.
Beyond presenting cultural heritage, Tobatenun continues to champion sustainability in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each textile is handwoven by local artisans using environmentally conscious materials, while supporting ethical production practices and strengthening the livelihoods of weaving communities. As a result, every piece represents not only a living cultural narrative but also a commitment to responsible production and sustainable consumption.
Tobatenun's participation at the Indonesia Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka reaffirmed the significance of Batak handwoven textiles on the international stage. More than cultural artefacts, these textiles embody identity, sustainability, and intergenerational collaboration. Through its revitalised collections, Tobatenun continues its commitment to preserving, reimagining, and ensuring the enduring relevance of Batak weaving traditions for generations to come.
