That July, the morning air in Mollo was cold, even though the sun was shining brightly. Naturally, Mollo is located at the foot of Mount Nausus in South Central Timor (TTS). Its height reaches 1200 meters above sea level. But that didn't stop Mama Maria (501) from talking about the current problems with her ikat weaving business.
"It's hard to weave now, miss. There are no cotton trees. Color plants are also difficult," said Mama Maria, who has been weaving since she was 12 years old while endlessly twisting and twisting cotton into yarn.
Now, Mama Maria and her friends are forced to use synthetic threads and colors bought at the market. Of course, at a high price. 'I actually don't like it. Because synthetic colors are not durable and fade quickly,' said Mama Maria, who needs two months to produce one piece of woven fabric. Another complaint from this mother from Amanatun is about weaving organizations or groups in her area.