East Java Wood Product Fest 2023, organized by the Faculty of Agriculture (FP) Brawijaya University (UB) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) and the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), has been successfully implemented through two days educational exhibition at Malang Creative Center (MCC).
With enthusiastic direction from the Chair of the Event, Arif Delviawan, S.Hut., M.Agr., Ph.D., this festival aims to introduce innovations in processed wood products to the general public and academic circles. Delviawan emphasized that forest products have great potential that continues to develop, and deserve further attention. Through this exhibition, various innovations in processed wood products from the wood processing industry in East Java (Jatim) are exhibited, with the hope of increasing interaction between wood processing industry producers, the community and related parties to open opportunities for meaningful collaboration and expand understanding of the potential of forests resulting products among the public and academics.
The participation of wood craftsmen from Malang City, Pasuruan, Malang Regency, Kepanjen, and surrounding areas confirms their continued interest in wood product innovation. The exhibitors at the East Java Wood Product Fest 2023 reflect the diversity and enthusiasm of the creative wood industry in East Java. Ingco Tools Malang, as a global tool and power tools industry since 2016, offers simple designs and trusted quality, becoming the main choice for professionals, craftsmen and DIY craft lovers. SalingXSilang Hastakarya, a creative woodworker from Lawang since 2012, amazes with unique handicrafts and practical furniture including handcrafted bracelets, frames, wall hangings and flower pot strings at affordable prices.
Artdias Gallery from Pasuruan, since 2020, has shown its concern for the environment by creating environmentally friendly products such as wall hangings, key chains, unique hooks and wall clocks, while engaging in early education through innovative children’s toys. Meanwhile, Ravie Furniture and Craft from Ngajum, Malang, has been using teak wood twig waste since 2020, producing various furniture products which are not only traded in the local East Java market but have also succeeded in reaching international markets, including Australia. The diversity of approaches and innovations displayed by exhibitors reflects the strong spirit and enthusiasm in supporting the East Java Wood Product Fest 2023.
The involvement of various parties, from industry representatives, the general public, to academics, reflects the continued attractiveness of the wood industry. The involvement of academics, especially students, is evidence of continued interest in the wood industry among the younger generation. Continued interest from academics not only indicates that the wood industry is still interesting, but also provides fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. The statement by Mr David, owner of SalingXSilang Hastakarya, provides a very clear picture of the wood craftsman’s passion and his hopes for sustainable collaboration.
“The ‘Friendship’ technique that we apply in making handcrafted bracelets not only creates unique products at affordable prices, but also reflects our enthusiasm to continue collaborating and expanding appreciation for the beauty of processed wood products,” said David.
“East Java Wood Product Fest 2023” provides a platform for FP UB to display innovative wood products from various industries in East Java, which in turn contributes to the education of the general public. The two days exhibition, which takes place on 13-14 December 2023 at Malang Creative Center, displays innovative wooden products from the local industry. This event not only highlights the achievements of the timber industry but also aims to increase awareness and interest among the general public. [fp/pon/UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
