I had an unexpected encounter with Ibu Cucu. When I first met her, I was on a mission to find a weaver to help me with my final-year project. She was willing to help me weave pineapple leaf fiber. Our first meeting was awkward. But after some time, I became comfortable talking to her and hearing stories about her journey as a weaver.

Last year, I conducted research for my final-year project, which involved transforming pineapple leaf fiber into woven material. Ibu Cucu helped me with the process, offering suggestions on how to improve the appearance of the weave. It wasn't just my vision for the weave; Ibu Cucu was involved as well. I listened to her years of experience with weaving.

I was amazed by her spirit of craftsmanship. Traditional weaving has experienced ups and downs due to technological advances and the influx of new cultures. However, amid the craft's unpredictable nature, she maintained her enthusiasm and recognized the potential in every opportunity. Together with her husband, Ibu Cucu seizes every opportunity to promote Akar Wangi weaving, working with clients, including the government, to showcase it. She has created job opportunities for women in her neighborhood and built her own brand, Rahayu Akarwangi. Through her craftsmanship, she has preserved local wisdom amid modern culture while using local resources.

Craftsmanship is not something that moves quickly, nor is it something that only exists at certain times. Traditional weaving itself reflects prayers and hopes. It is a cultural root that must be preserved. Appreciating and reinterpreting the gradual process that creates beauty. The season of uncertainty may come unexpectedly, but let the spirit of tradition and craftsmanship continue to burn bright.