Jannatul Maiyah Develops Creative Sasirangan Business Based on Soft Skills and Local Empowerment
Banjarmasin – Jannatul Maiyah, an alumnus of Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM), has demonstrated inspiring success by developing a creative business based on the traditional South Kalimantan fabric, Sasirangan, while continuing to hone her soft skills and professional network. This activity demonstrates the utilization of ULM alumni’s interests, talents, and expertise in combining business, self-development, and local cultural preservation.
Amidst her busy professional schedule, Jannatul remains active in various organizational activities. She believes this involvement is crucial for maintaining relationships, expanding her network, and honing her communication, leadership, and time management skills. Strengthening these soft skills has become a key asset in pioneering her current creative venture.
This cumlaude alumnus is currently developing a tote bag business made from Sasirangan fabric. Although still in its early stages, she is optimistic that local products will be accepted by the younger generation if packaged according to trends.
“My Sasirangan business hasn’t grown rapidly because my focus is divided between my professional work and personal development. However, I remain optimistic about the opportunities,” she said.
The strength of the product she’s developed lies in the use of premium materials at affordable prices and designs tailored to Gen Z tastes. This innovation is expected to change the perception that Sasirangan is not just a traditional fabric, but can also be a fashion product relevant to today’s lifestyle.
In the production process, Jannatul also empowers the local community. Currently, eight housewives are involved as tailors, while Gen Z members play a role in digital promotion. This approach not only strengthens the product’s economic value but also creates a social impact through empowering local resources.
However, she acknowledged that she still faces several challenges, particularly related to production supply and market education. The limited readiness of local artisans to fulfill large orders means that production processes cannot be significantly increased. Furthermore, educating consumers about the importance of preserving Sasirangan as a cultural heritage also requires ongoing efforts.
Going forward, Jannatul aims to expand her business further. He aspires to produce tote bags made from traditional fabrics from various regions in Indonesia, not just Sasirangan.
“Hopefully, this product can become a space for cultural collaboration and a sustainable business opportunity,” she concluded.
The story of Jannatul Maiyah reflects how alumni of Lambung Mangkurat University are able to optimize their interests and expertise, combining creativity, soft skills, and social awareness to create works of both economic and cultural value.
