There’s tall grass that grows abundantly on the wetlands. This plant, which people usually call purun, spreads in marshes or frequently flooded areas, often spreading uncontrollably, and is considered a weed.
Although purun is widely considered an invasive plant, this wild grass has proven capable of creating an impact that often goes unnoticed.
Through the hands of Tapin’s women, purun is transformed into something of greater value, while at the same time preserving a tradition that has endured for dozens of generations.
A Legacy of Tradition Through Art
Preserving tradition is not merely about maintaining cultural order amid the rush of modern life, but about nurturing and passing on identity.
“Since childhood, we were taught how to weave, and learning this skill was not optional. Especially for coastal communities, it is almost unthinkable not to have this ability,” said Salabiah (53), who grew up in the coastal area of Candi Laras Selatan.
Salabiah inherited the skill of purun weaving from her family, passed down through generations, and understands that this craft is one way of safeguarding cultural identity.
Motivated by this belief, with the help of MCI, she initiated the “Berkat Mufakat Bersama” craft group and began sharing her weaving skills with women in Shabah Village, Tapin Regency, South Kalimantan.
Empowered Women
For the women of Shabah Village, purun also tells a story about how tradition always finds a way to survive.
Previously, many of them were housewives without a steady source of income. Through dedication and persistence in learning the craft, they are now able to produce woven goods that attract market demand.
What was once seen as a simple household activity has evolved into an economic opportunity that strengthens family livelihoods.
Each woven piece crafted by the women of Tapin is more than just a product, but proof that opportunity can emerge from the most modest beginnings.
Nurturing Identity Through Purun
In essence, purun is not merely a wild plant, it is part of the lifeblood of South Kalimantan’s communities.
Purun, also known as mensiang, which grows along swamp edges, has transformed into a new source of strength, connecting tradition, creativity, and economic independence.
Ultimately, this is a story about preserving heritage, empowering women, and how small communities can create meaningful change.
From waterlogged wetlands to wider markets, one simple message resonates: when tradition is nurtured and given space to grow, it will always find a way not only to survive, but also to sustain lives.
