Batik Goes International

The word Batik is first recorded in English in the Encyclopedia Britannica of 1880, in which it is spelled battik. It is attested in the Indonesian Archipelago during the Dutch colonial period. A tradition of making batik is found in various countries, the batik of Indonesia, however, is the best-known. Indonesian batik made in the island of Java has a long history of acculturation, with diverse patterns influenced by a variety of cultures, and is the most developed in terms of pattern, technique, and the quality of workmanship. In October 2009, UNESCO designated Indonesian batik as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The spread of Batik for centuries made it become a common cultural practice that weaves the relationship between countries in SouthEast Asia (Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia, and Laos). Through Indonesian public participation, Batik was inscribed as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2009. The inscription addressed the authenticity and exceptional cultural values that are deeply embedded in Batik textile heritage.

Today, the batik safeguarding practice is increasing nationally and becomes an inspiration to many textile craft artisans around the world. In 2015, Batik became the core livelihood for 47,775 SMEs in Indonesia and 199,744 people who work as craftsmen, designers, tailors, etc.). The inscription of Batik as an UNESCO intangible cultural heritage in 2009 became a shared responsibility among national/international stakeholders in order to protect the extraordinary cultural elements inherent in this living heritage for future generations.

Hollywood celebrities seen in Batik

From left to right: Jessica Alba, Heidi Klum, Rachel Bilson, Reese Witherspoon