Source: Humas FSRD Untar
The Interior Design Study Program of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Design (FSRD) at Universitas Tarumanagara collaborated with CV Blotan Asian Art to showcase innovative rattan furniture designs at the international furniture exhibition Indonesia International Furniture Expo 2026, held from 5–8 March 2026 at Indonesia Convention Exhibition BSD City.
The collaboration introduced knock-down rattan furniture products developed through design research conducted by FSRD Untar academics in partnership with industry collaborators. The works were exhibited at Hall 8-07 as part of efforts to introduce innovative Indonesian rattan furniture designs to international buyers while opening opportunities for cooperation and product export.
Lead researcher and designer Dr. Drs. Eddy Supriyatna Marizar, M.Hum., M.M., stated that the collaboration between universities and industry demonstrates how academic research can be implemented into furniture products with economic value and global competitiveness.
“This collaboration proves that research outcomes do not stop at academic studies, but can evolve into products ready to be introduced to the international market,” he said.
The FSRD Untar research team involved in the product development included Dean of FSRD Untar Dr. Maitri Widya Mutiara, S.Ds., M.M., who also served as a researcher and designer, as well as Prof. Dr. Ir. Agustinus Purna Irawan, M.T., M.M., IPU, ASEAN Eng., as research consultant. In addition, young researchers Mariana, S.Ds., M.Ars. and Ferdinand, S.Ds., M.Ars. also contributed to the design development.
Founder of CV Blotan Asian Art, Heru Prasetyo, considered the collaboration with Untar a strategic step toward strengthening the competitiveness of Indonesia’s rattan furniture industry on the global stage.
“The integration of research, design, and industrial partnership becomes an important foundation in strengthening Indonesia’s position as a strategic player in the global rattan furniture industry,” he said.
The products displayed were the result of applied research combining innovations in construction structure, design exploration, and the use of Indonesian rattan materials. The furniture prototypes were produced by Blotan Asian Art and exhibited at IFEX 2026 as part of market testing and promotion to international buyers. (VC/YS)