In 1996, Kikuo Morimoto(1948-2017) established IKTT, a local NGO in Cambodia. Its mission is to revive traditional Cambodian silk weaving, which had nearly vanished during the years of hardship and its aftermath. Building on techniques passed down through generations, IKTT continues to bring beautiful textiles back to life in the modern era.

 

In 2003, IKTT launched the “Project of Wisdom from the Forest.” Starting from barren land, the project built simple houses, dug wells, cultivated fields, grew mulberry trees, raised silkworms, and planted trees for natural dyeing. This became a craft village where self-sufficient dyeing and weaving are possible. Called the “IKTT Village,” the site is not only centered on natural dyeing and weaving but also dedicated to restoring both local livelihoods and the surrounding natural environment. Today, the 24-hectare site preserves nearly half of its area for forest regeneration and has grown into a “new village,” officially recognized by the local authorities, where about 100 people live.