Klompen, a local heritage of East Java

Photo: Batik High Heels Dinara Klompen Product

          Klompen, who is familiar with this legendary footwear? Yes, klompen are footwear made from wood, klompen themselves have been around since the Dutch colonial era, you could say klompen have been everyday footwear for workers and farmers in East Java in ancient times. Although klompen are better known as part of Dutch culture, they also have a timeless history in East Java, Indonesia.

          Reporting from the Malang Hits blog, klompen is the lowest level of bakiak, commonly worn by farmers, laborers, students and other lower classes during the colonial era. Bakiak are a type of traditional sandal that has a long history and is rooted in the overseas traditions of the Chinese people. It is estimated that bakiak arrived in the archipelago in the 8th century, brought by nomads from China, especially by the Tang-lang people from Hokkien who were famous as great nomads. Not only men migrate, but also women, who often bring typical items from their hometowns, including Bakiak.

          Klompen are used by farmers and workers in rural areas as practical and durable footwear. Made of wood, klompen provides good protection against wet and muddy weather conditions, as well as providing effective security from cold ground. However, along with the times and modernization, the use of klompen has begun to decrease and has been replaced by modern footwear which is more comfortable and stylish. Despite this, klompen remains part of Indonesia's cultural heritage. Some craftsmen still make klompen as handicraft products that are sold as souvenirs, and klompen are often used as part of traditional costumes in arts and cultural performances.

          Now, the klompen has more modern modifications and of course, is more comfortable to wear. For example, klompen that are produced directly by Dinara Wooden Heels, an MSME from Malang, East Java. Klompen produced by Dinara uses quality, durable and non-slip mahogany wood. Not only does Dinara have superior products, but they also combines with local Indonesian batik in its klompen products. So, consumers have received elements of Indonesian culture, fashion and history. If you are curious about this East Javanese klompen, let's order Klompen Dinara now!