Sokoshima Chair, Harmony of Jepara Tradition and Modernity on Stage IFEX 2026
Tangerang - The buzz of Indonesian furniture innovation reached its peak once again at the 2026 International Indonesia Furniture Expo (IFEX) held at ICE BSD, South Tangerang. Among the array of cutting-edge works, one product captured the attention of visitors and design observers at the Indonesian Furniture Designers Association (HDMI) booth.
This is the Sokoshima Chair, a masterpiece by Jepara-based professional designer Ahmad Kholik, who successfully blends historical narrative with contemporary aesthetics. Produced through a strategic collaboration between Arsya Home and Kahya Studio, this dining chair is more than just functional furniture. It is a cultural statement.
Inspired by the "Soko," or main pillar in Javanese architecture, this chair features a solid teak wood structure that reflects stability and sturdiness. The natural matte finish on the legs creates a both honest and elegant impression.
"We convey the philosophy of firmness and justice from the figure of Queen Shima in the clean, precise lines of the backrest. However, we prioritize comfort through subtle ergonomic curves," said Ahmad Kholik, Monday (March 9, 2026).
The uniqueness is further enhanced by the seat, which is covered in authentic Troso ikat woven fabric. This material provides an ethnic texture with warm earth tones, while also symbolizing the craftsmanship of Jepara artisans using traditional woodworking techniques (mortise-and-tenon).
Ahmad Kholik's work received direct appreciation from Jepara regional leaders. The Chairman of the Jepara Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), Agus Sutisna, along with the Head of the Jepara Trade and Industry Agency, Anjar J. Widodo, were present to inspect the HDMI booth to provide moral support to the local designers who have successfully penetrated the international market.
During his visit, Agus Sutisna expressed his admiration for the quality of the designs on display.
"The involvement of Jepara's native designers in a prestigious event like IFEX is proof that our human resources are capable of competing globally. This is no longer about selling wood, but about selling added value through design and cultural narratives," Agus emphasized.
Echoing this sentiment, the Head of the Jepara Trade and Industry Office, Anjar J. Widodo, emphasized the government's commitment to fostering a design ecosystem in the "City of Carvings."
"The government strongly supports the involvement of the furniture design profession. Collaboration between craftsmen and designers is key to increasing the competitiveness of Indonesian furniture, especially Jepara's, in the export market. We will continue to facilitate innovations like this," he said.
Hopes for Sustainable Collaboration
For Ahmad Kholik, his presence at IFEX 2026 under the HDMI umbrella is an important step for the future of the national furniture industry. He hopes the synergy between designers, manufacturers, and the government will not stop at the exhibition alone.
"I hope this kind of collaboration continues. This is a concrete manifestation of our efforts to increase innovation in furniture design in Indonesia. With the support of government policies and the creativity of designers, I am optimistic that our furniture will always hold a special place in the hearts of people around the world," Kholik concluded hopefully.
The Sokoshima Chair now stands as proof that in the hands of the right designer, Jepara's traditional roots can be transformed into a global product that harmonizes with the modern dining space.
