The first multisectoral collaboration seminar, a collaboration among 1) the Women’s Organization Cooperation Board (BKOW) of Gorontalo Province, 2) the SRIREP project of the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN), 3) the State University of Gorontalo (UNG), and Japan Totsuka Embroidery Association, was held at Gorontalo Palace Convention Center (GPCC) on March 21, 2023. The theme was “1st Multisectoral Collaboration Seminar on Aspiration, Empowerment & Regional Innovation of Gorontalo’s Women for Future Sustainability of Traditional Karawo Ikat Embroidery”.

This seminar was officially opened by dr. Hj Nurindah Rahim, M. Sc., chairman of BKOW. In her opening remarks, she stated that this event is evidence of BKOW’s participation in preserving Gorontalo’s Karawo Ikat embroidery as well as an endeavor to empower women. It is anticipated that women’s empowerment can be expanded in order to strengthen the family’s economy.

Dr. Eduart Wolok, MT, Rector of Gorontalo State University (UNG), gave a speech that encouraged the women to continue developing their innovative concepts for developing Karawo products.

Approximately 125 individuals were present, including representatives from the Mayor of Gorontalo and the Regent of Bone Bolango, as well as representatives from 35 women’s organizations, Karawo makers, Karawo businesses, and Karawo observers. The seminar was also enlivened by a mini-exhibition of MSMEs from Gorontalo.

The seminar consisted of two distinct sessions. The first session featured one speaker, Shimaoka Junko, who discussed world embroidery. Dr. Andi Patkware Metaragakusuma, researcher of the SRIREP Project, RIHN served as moderator. Lailany Yahya discussed the characteristics and uniqueness of Karawo Ikat Gorontalo, and Dr. Andi Patiware Metaragakusuma addressed fashion ethics during the second session. The second session was led by Dr. Yayu Indriati Arifin of UNG.

Before the first session began, the declaration of “Karawo ikat for future sustainability” was marked by raising the Karawo ikat handkerchief as high as the chest. ”