Ulos: the Batak woven cloth

Ulos is the handwoven cloth of the Batak people around Lake Toba in North Sumatra. It signals status, serves as a family heirloom and is given as a gift at births, weddings and deaths ^[1]. It is closer to a blessing you hand over than a souvenir scarf.

Why is ulos given, not only worn?

Giving ulos, called mangulosi, is a gesture of affection. It is given within a family or to someone of lower social status, and in weddings it symbolically binds the couple together ^[3]. The direction of the gift carries meaning, so a ceremony is not the place to improvise.

As a visitor, accept a gift with thanks and ask how to wear it. Our Batak village etiquette guide covers the rest of the manners.

Where do Malaysians meet ulos?

On Samosir, in village stops and souvenir stalls. Traditional ulos is still made in Tongging, Paropo and Silalahi on the northwestern shore of the lake, and Tomok and Tuktuk have shops selling it ^[2]. The Tomok and Ambarita village guide shows what else sits nearby.

The dance called tor-tor is another way visitors meet Batak culture on the island.

How do you buy a real piece?

Touch it before you pay. Very soft, smooth cloth is likely machine-made, while original handwoven pieces feel rougher and cost more ^[2]. Ask where it was woven and by whom.

Set a price range first, and compare two or three stalls. Our souvenir budget guide helps you plan how much to spend. For a different Indonesian textile, read about batik.

How does it fit your plan?

Pair a cloth stop with a Samosir village visit, not with a long boat day. Check ferry and road times with your driver, and use the Samosir guide and Lake Toba guide for base areas.

Ask in advance about market days or festival closures so the stall you want is open when you arrive.