2-10-2023 (JAKARTA) President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has encouraged all Indonesians to take pride in batik, which holds a special place as the nation’s cultural heritage. Speaking at the “Istana Berbatik” event in the courtyard of the Merdeka Palace, he emphasized the significance of batik, describing it as not only an exceptional work of art but also as the world’s intangible cultural heritage, replete with symbolism, techniques, and cultural significance deeply intertwined with Indonesia.
The “Istana Berbatik” event was organized by the Tourism and Creative Economy Ministry to commemorate National Batik Day, observed on October 2. President Jokowi invited the nation to actively participate in preserving and advancing the art of batik.
The event, “Istana Berbatik,” was a grand fashion show that showcased a diverse array of batik designs from the archipelago, each brimming with profound philosophical meaning and timeless beauty, according to the President.
Angela Tanoesoedibjo, the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy and the chair of the event committee, highlighted how the fashion show demonstrated that batik has become an integral part of Indonesian life.
“In this show, we see how batik has become part of people’s lives throughout the generations, passing down through time, and becoming an essential component of Indonesian cultural diplomacy,” she noted.
The fashion show took place on a 150-meter-long stage with the Merdeka Palace as its backdrop, featuring carefully selected batik creations from various regions across the country. These batiks were crafted by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that had received guidance and support from institutions such as Bank Indonesia and BRI, in addition to the contributions of Indonesian fashion designers.
A total of 503 models participated in the event, including representatives from royal courts, government agencies, foreign ambassadors, ministers, and prominent public figures.
The celebration drew a crowd of approximately four thousand guests and was complemented by a captivating dance performance and a batik exhibition, further demonstrating the nation’s dedication to preserving and showcasing its rich cultural heritage and craftwork.
