Narman, a young man from the Baduy tribe in Lebak Regency, Banten, Indonesia, is a testament to the power of turning limitations into strengths. He has successfully introduced the traditional handicrafts of his community to a wider audience through his initiative, Baduy Craft. This story explores Narman’s journey, highlighting his commitment to preserving Baduy culture while empowering his community through entrepreneurship.
The Baduy Tribe: A Legacy of Tradition and Craftsmanship

The Baduy tribe is renowned for its unwavering adherence to ancestral traditions and its deep respect for nature. This indigenous community, nestled in the remote hills of Banten, lives a simple life, closely connected to the land that sustains them. While their isolation from the urban world might suggest a lack of economic activity, the Baduy people are skilled artisans, creating exquisite handicrafts that have long been a part of their cultural heritage.
Their traditional crafts include kain tenun (woven fabrics), tas kepek (woven bags), and various accessories, each imbued with intricate designs and cultural significance. However, the marketing of these handicrafts has traditionally been limited, with sales primarily occurring when visitors ventured into their villages.
Narman’s Vision: Bridging Tradition and Modernity

In 2016, Narman, a young Baduy man, recognized the potential to expand the market for his community’s crafts. He saw an opportunity to introduce these unique products to a broader audience, leveraging the power of the internet and social media.
Narman’s journey began with Baduy Craft, an Instagram account he created to showcase the intricate beauty of Baduy handicrafts. This digital platform became a window into the world of Baduy craftsmanship, attracting a growing number of interested buyers.
He further expanded his reach by establishing a presence on online marketplaces like Tokopedia and Bukalapak, making Baduy crafts accessible to a wider online audience. Narman’s initiative not only increased the visibility of Baduy handicrafts but also provided a stable source of income for the artisans, empowering them to sustain their traditions and livelihood.
Overcoming Challenges: Tradition and Internet Access
Narman’s path to success was not without its challenges. The Baduy community’s strict adherence to tradition posed a significant obstacle. The use of smartphones, considered a symbol of modern technology, is forbidden within the Baduy inner village. This restriction stemmed from the community’s desire to preserve their traditional way of life and safeguard their cultural identity.
Narman faced criticism from community elders for his use of a smartphone, a tool essential for managing his online ventures. However, he skillfully navigated this delicate situation by explaining the positive impact of his initiative. He assured the elders that his use of technology was not intended to disrupt their traditions but rather to promote their crafts and improve their well-being.
Narman’s commitment to his community and respect for adat were evident in his approach. He emphasized that his actions were not about abandoning their traditions but rather finding ways to adapt and thrive in the modern world while staying true to their cultural values.
Another hurdle Narman faced was the limited internet access within the Baduy region. To update his online platforms and manage his business, he had to travel to the border of the Baduy territory, often walking for long distances to access internet connectivity.
The Impact of the Pandemic: A Period of Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic presented a significant challenge for Narman’s business. With lockdowns and travel restrictions in place, the demand for Baduy crafts, primarily used for events and cultural celebrations, plummeted. Narman experienced a two-year period of stagnation, with his business struggling to survive.
However, Narman’s resilience and determination shone through. He weathered the storm, adapting his strategies to the changing circumstances. He continued to promote Baduy crafts online, finding new ways to engage with his audience and maintain their interest. He also explored alternative markets and sought new partnerships to diversify his business.
Narman’s Legacy: A Story of Empowerment and Preservation

Narman’s journey with Baduy Craft is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. He has successfully bridged the gap between tradition and modernity, showcasing the beauty of Baduy handicrafts to a global audience.
His story serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that even in the face of limitations and challenges, it is possible to achieve remarkable success while staying true to one’s cultural heritage. Narman’s efforts have not only revitalized the traditional crafts of the Baduy community but also empowered them to participate in the modern economy.
Narman’s initiative has also raised awareness about the importance of cultural preservation and the role of indigenous communities in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future. His story is a reminder that traditional knowledge and skills are valuable assets that can be leveraged to create economic opportunities and foster cultural understanding.
Narman’s dedication to uplifting the Baduy artisans’ economy led him to be awarded the Sinergi Astra Terpadu Untuk (SATU) Indonesia Award in the Entrepreneurship category in 2018. This recognition came as a complete surprise to Narman, as he saw his efforts as solely focused on improving the Baduy community’s economic well-being. The SATU Indonesia Award has become a significant source of motivation for Narman. It has helped to further increase the recognition of the Baduy Craft brand.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Baduy Craft

Narman’s journey is far from over. He continues to innovate and adapt, seeking new ways to promote Baduy crafts and ensure their continued success. He recognizes the importance of embracing technology while staying true to the values and traditions of his community.
Narman’s story is a beacon of hope for indigenous communities around the world, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship to preserve cultural heritage and create a more equitable and sustainable future. His commitment to his community, his unwavering spirit, and his innovative approach to business have made him a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and a champion for cultural preservation.

Dian Ravi. Muslimah travel blogger Indonesia. Jakarta. Part time blogger, full time day dreamer. Pink addict, but also love toska. See, even I cannot decide what’s my favorite color is.Mau bikin bahagia, cukup ajak jalan dan foto-foto.