Promoting Malaysian Batik Heritage

By Ruthraz W.

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 9: The Ministry of Art and Culture Tourism (MOTAC), in collaboration with the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Perbadanan Kemajuan Kraftangan Malaysia), recently organized a Joint Media Session for the ‘This is Malaysian Batik’ Campaign.
Held at Wau Page, Kuala Lumpur Kraf Complex in Jalan Conlay, this event aimed to celebrate and raise awareness about the rich tradition of Malaysian batik.
Distinguished guests at the session included Datuk Mohd Zamri Mat Zain, Deputy Chief Secretary (Pelancongan) of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC), and Ainu Sham Ramli, Chief Director of Kraftangan Malaysia, along with members of the media.
The objective of this Joint Media Session was to provide media professionals with in-depth insights into the world of Malaysian batik.
The program included informative batik briefings, captivating demonstrations, and exhibitions showcasing various batik techniques, such as Batik Canting, Terap Batik, Saring Silk Batik, and Alternative Batik.
This initiative coincided with the official proclamation of Malaysian Batik Day on Dec 3 each year and the recent circular letter issued by the Public Service Department (JPA) on Aug 21.
The circular letter encourages Federal Public Service employees to wear Malaysian Batik clothing during working hours.
The hope is that media representatives can disseminate information about Malaysian batik to the public, raising awareness about its cultural significance and promoting its use.
During the session, a significant milestone was reached as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the corporation and three important associations: the Umrah & Hajj Tourism Agency Association (PAPUH), the Malaysia Bumiputera Tourism Control Company Association (BUMITRA MALAYSIA), and the Malaysian Tourism and Adventure Agencies Association (MATTA).
This MoU aims to encourage Malaysian Umrah pilgrims to embrace Malaysian batik, promoting its use and showcasing batik textile craftsmanship on an international stage.
The handicraft corporation also vows to continue its unwavering commitment to support and nurture the craft industry in Malaysia, ensuring its growth and sustainability.
Both MOTAC and Kraftangan Malaysia urge Malaysians to continue supporting and purchasing locally crafted products, contributing to the vitality and competitiveness of the craft industry.
This joint effort serves as a tribute to the nation’s cultural heritage and its vibrant craft traditions.