Jokowi Stops At Imbi Park In Papua, Greets Craftsmen, Wholesales Nokens To Hats

PAPUA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) bought a variety of noken or traditional woven bags that are sold by artisans in Taman Imbi, Papua.

During his shopping on the sidelines of the working visit, Jokowi was accompanied by Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and Jayapura Mayor, Banhur Tomi Mano.

The presence of President Jokowi seemed to have been awaited by the craftsmen who during the implementation of PON XX and Peparnas XVI opened their stalls under the tent provided on the sidewalk.

It appears that the noken purchased by President Jokowi come from various sizes. The materials used also vary from wood fiber, orchid stems and knitted threads.

Reporting from Antara, Saturday, November 13, Jokowi was seen surrounding the stalls where the women held their wares and bought Papuan nokens and hats.

Siska Mote, one of the craftsmen who sells noken to admits that he is happy to be able to participate since PON XX and Peparnas XVI.

Siska admitted that the proceeds from the sale of noken were profitable. He hopes that his merchandise sells well.

When asked about the price of the noken bags sold, Siska Mote admitted that it varies depending on the material. Noken from orchid skin can cost up to IDR 5 million.

While the price of noken bark depends on the size, while the price ranges from Rp. 200,000 to Rp. 500,000. The price for yarn ranges from Rp. 100,000 to Rp. 500,000, said Siska Mote.

The noken market which is held in the framework of Peparnas XVI is scheduled to last until Monday, November 15.

President Jokowi closed the XVI Peparnas which had been taking place since last Friday, 5 November.