SEMARANG – Universitas Diponegoro (Undip) has once again demonstrated its commitment to community service through a program titled “Introduction of Natural Plant Materials as Textile Dyes for Dharma Wanita FSM Undip to Support Economic Growth,” held on Thursday (Feb 13).
The event, which took place at the Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM) Undip, aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the potential of plants as eco-friendly and economically valuable sources of natural textile dyes.
The program was led by Muhammad Luqman Hakim, M.Si., alongside faculty team members Dr. Nintya Setiari, M.Si., Dr. Endang Saptiningsih, M.Si., and Dr. Yulita Nurchayati, M.Si. The field implementation was also fully supported by five student assistants from the FSM Undip Biology Study Program.
The team leader, Muhammad Luqman Hakim, M.Si., explained that the utilization of natural materials as textile dyes holds promising prospects, especially amidst the growing public awareness of sustainable products.
“Many plants around us contain natural pigments that can be used as textile dyes. Beyond being environmentally friendly, this also presents a potential business opportunity,” he stated.
During the activity, participants—who are members of the Dharma Wanita FSM Undip—received not only theoretical knowledge regarding types of plants that produce natural colors but also participated in demonstrations of pigment extraction processes and hands-on fabric dyeing practices.
The participants showed great enthusiasm during the practical session, experimenting with natural materials such as leaves to produce various colors on fabric. In addition to technical aspects, the service team provided insights into the development opportunities for natural dye-based textile products as part of women’s economic empowerment.
One participant expressed that the activity opened new perspectives on utilizing natural materials that are often overlooked. “It turns out that materials around our homes can be processed into something of economic value. We feel more confident to try creating our own products,” she said. Other participants added that the hands-on practice was instrumental in understanding the dyeing process thoroughly.
Besides improving technical skills, the event also strengthened the sense of community among Dharma Wanita FSM Undip members through interactive and collaborative learning. The active discussions indicated that participants were not only interested in the creative side but were also seriously considering sustainable business opportunities.
Through this initiative, it is hoped that Dharma Wanita FSM Undip can develop new skills that are not only creatively beneficial but also hold the potential to support the economic growth of families and the community.
This community service activity serves as a testament to Undip’s commitment to supporting science-based innovation that has a direct impact on society.