Uniting tradition and modernity through a vibrant fashion show that celebrates batik as a treasured cultural symbol

Every October 2, Indonesia celebrates National Batik Day to honor the recognition of batik as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009. This significant day serves as a symbol of Indonesian culture, which must be preserved and promoted. By wearing batik, we play a role in maintaining our rich and diverse cultural heritage. To commemorate this historic occasion, a fashion show titled “Istana Berbatik” was held on October 1, 2023, in front of the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, showcasing the beauty of batik from across the archipelago.

Collaboration to Preserve Batik

The “Istana Berbatik” event was a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), and the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, along with various state-owned and regional enterprises, private sector participants, and community organizations. This event served not only as a fashion show but also as a campaign to raise public awareness about the importance of preserving batik as a cultural heritage.

The attendance of President Joko Widodo, First Lady Iriana, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin, and Mrs. Wury Estu Handayani highlighted the strong government support for batik preservation. This event aims to inspire the public to appreciate and embrace batik as a vital part of our national identity.

Supporting Local Designers

During the “Istana Berbatik” fashion show, local designers showcased their finest creations. Batik, a traditional Indonesian art form, involves intricate fabric patterns created using techniques passed down through generations. By promoting local designers, the event not only highlights the beauty of batik but also supports the growth of Indonesia's fashion industry.

This support for batik designers and artists is a tangible step toward empowering both batik and the Indonesian fashion sector. It encourages creativity and innovation among designers while introducing the uniqueness of Indonesian culture to the global fashion landscape.

Entertainment and Cultural Appreciation

The “Istana Berbatik” event offered more than just a fashion show. It featured performances from celebrated musicians like Rossa, Soegi Bornean, Novia Bachmid, Mirabeth, and Olivia. The talented hosts, Raffi Ahmad and Astrid Tiar, added to the lively atmosphere, making the event even more enjoyable. With 3,190 attendees—including ministers, vice ministers, governors, ambassadors, cultural figures, and members of the public—the gathering created a warm and vibrant ambiance.

Amplifying Batik's Charm on the Global Stage

The “Istana Berbatik” event aims to deepen public understanding and pride in batik as an essential part of Indonesia's cultural heritage. It presents an opportunity for the local fashion industry to grow and contribute to the creative economy while showcasing batik's charm on the global fashion stage.

National Batik Day is not merely a celebration but also a reminder of the importance of preserving a culture that is integral to our national identity. Let us collectively make batik a cultural ambassador for Indonesia and continue to preserve it for future generations. By wearing batik, we carry with us stories and histories rich in meaning and value. 

photo source : kemenparekraf.go.id

#national batik day #batik fashion show #Istana Berbatik #Indonesian cultural heritage #UNESCO batik heritage #traditional batik designs #local fashion designers #preserving batik culture #batik as national identity #batik artisans #promoting batik #batik patterns #Indonesian textiles #cultural events in Indonesia #batik history #batik awareness #batik craftsmanship #creative economy Indonesia #batik in the fashion industry #celebrating Indonesian traditions #media #article #rsvp clique #rc