Protecting the Traditional Knowledge of Vernacular Communities : the Government Role in Safeguarding the Siak’s Weaving Art in Riau, Indonesia

Rasyidi, Afnan and Thalib, Abd and Syafrinaldi, Syafrinaldi and Thalib, Nur Aisyah (2023) Protecting the Traditional Knowledge of Vernacular Communities : the Government Role in Safeguarding the Siak’s Weaving Art in Riau, Indonesia. ISVS e-journal, 10. pp. 131-141.

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Abstract

Traditional knowledge characterized by geography is spiritually valuable for the local people. Siak’s weaving art products in Indonesia fits very well into this category. However, they are constantly under threat and need support to survive. In Indonesia, government often comes to provide this support. In this context, this article analyses the role of government in providing legal protection for traditional knowledge of Siak’s weaving art products. Its intention is to explore the process and to identify the obstacles. The research employs empirical observations and doctrinal interpretations as a methodology. It examines and interprets the principles, conceptions, doctrines and legal norms relating to the regulation of local wisdom and traditional culture in Indonesia. Sources of legal materials are laws and there are legislations and concept literature related to economic, social, and cultural rights. It identifies that one of the obstacles is the lack of knowledge among the local governments what traditional knowledge and communal intellectual property data are. In fact, there is a lack of understanding of the importance of protecting traditional cultural expressions. Moreover, the younger generation is not interested in the local traditions. Crafts are difficult to be marketed because of the high prices. Many craftsmen also do not register their businesses. It is concluded that the government has failed to provide legal protection to Siak’s weaving art. It has not been carried out as mandated by the Decree of Ministry of Human Rights No. 13 of 2017, concerning communal intellectual property’s Data. This is due the absence goodwill and lack of communication and coordination between the Siak Regency Government and the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of the Riau Province.

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