PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

This study explores the endeavors of the embroidery industry communities in Kudus Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, to endorse the existence of their craft industries and craft identities. The work ethics of Kudus embroidery artisans are unique. The significant marks of the uniqueness include: “maintaining the traditional embroidery technique, the traditional embroidery designs, and the community-based cooperative management.” Based on this research, the researchers argue that the embroidery craft industries in Kudus have become an economic asset of Kudus Regency in the sector of creative industries as well as having served as a cultural identity, which is also very important to strengthen the Indonesian national identity.