HANDEP - sustainable and responsible mindset
Arts and crafts in Central Kalimanta are not only an expression of artistic skills, but also a means of preserving cultural identity and traditions. Many of these crafts are passed down from generation to generation and are an important part of the cultural heritage. The raw material is grown and harvested by farmers, dyed with natural materials by dyers, artfully woven by weavers and lovingly crafted by decorators before finally reaching the end consumer.
Advancing globalization brings with it a multitude of problems. Deforestation is progressing, indigenous peoples are being driven out of their ancestral lands and traditional practices are gradually being lost. The founder of HANDEP - Randi Julian Miranda - himself a proud Dayak born and raised in Kalimanta (Indonesian Borneo) has always experienced the challenges faced by the indigenous peoples of the world. He is convinced that indigenous communities are at the forefront of the fight against climate change. Therefore, they should be able to participate in the decisions that affect their lives.
This conviction led him to found the company HANDEP in 2019. His intention was to reconnect the indigenous Dayak people with their rich land and culture. To encourage them to utilize their resources and carry on their knowledge of the traditional craftsmanship of their ancestors. To grow together as a community and create a sustainable village economy.
Each bag is unique
Did you know that each pattern on HANDEP bags has its own origin and meaning?
Our model Lawangan is decorated with a Kelakai pattern. Kelakai is an edible fern species that grows abundantly in the lush landscapes of Borneo. This fern is often used in the traditional cuisine of the Dayak people.
Or the model Katingan Canvas which is decorated with a salegegot pattern. The zigzag pattern imitates the interplay between the elements of wind and water. It represents the turbulence of a river and depicts a story of movement and change.
If you would like to know more about the available patterns and models, please contact us using the contact form.
Rattan - a rapidly renewable raw material
With the growing global awareness of sustainable living, rattan is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative sustainable material to wood. Compared to other types of wood, rattan grows very quickly and takes less time to be ready for harvesting. This climbing palm renews itself completely in just 4-7 years. Products made from rattan are also completely biodegradable.
The indigenous Dayak people of Kalimantan have always relied heavily on the resources of the rainforest, especially rattan. They have a strong centuries-old, intergenerational relationship with rattan, which they use for handicrafts, furniture and building materials.
The material offers a warm and inviting look that comes into its own in both modern and traditional products. As a material, rattan is extremely robust and durable. At the same time, the material is very light.
The HANDEP bags combine everything we stand for at Faedah Collection - sustainability, durability, beauty and functionality in a harmonious way. They contribute to an environmentally conscious and stylish lifestyle.
Knowledge transfer - the pillar of an entire community
HANDEP supports the local indigenous community through training, workshops and the development of village infrastructure. In 2021, the Powering Artisans Scholarship was also launched. This is a program in which artisans have the opportunity to study in other villages in Indonesia and deepen their skills and knowledge.
Through regular workshops, knowledge about the art of weaving is passed on from older to younger generations. In this way, HANDEP makes a major contribution to securing a sustainable source of income for the local population and women in particular.
Dare (web competitions) are also organized every year to promote exchange between the partner villages.
