How Indonesian Batik Became a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage

Not only can Indonesian batik making be used to create everyday clothing or high fashion outfits, but it has also used by people in Myanmar, Singapore, Malaysia, and Africa.

UNESCO’s website acknowledges that Indonesian batik is filled with a variety of symbols and rich traditions.

One example is how a batik fabric Indonesian mothers typically use to carry their baby is a symbol of bringing luck to the child’s life.

Today’s Indonesians regularly wear batik apparel at formal and informal events such as business meetings, academic settings, or weddings. Indonesian batik motifs are further viewed as having an important role in some rituals.

11 years after earning UNESCO’s status

UNESCO selected Indonesian batik as an Intangible Cultural Heritage on October 2, 2009 in Abu Dhabi, which Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi explained has been a blessing and challenge for the Southeast Asian country.

Indonesia’s Foreign Minister said that the acknowledgment of this historical craft marks the global appreciation for one of Indonesia’s many rich traditions.

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The challenge going forward for the country is on how to maintain and preserve this ancient art.

One effort is often practiced by Indonesian representatives who wear batik apparel at formal events in Indonesia and overseas.

“We are working with Indonesia’s community of diplomats to encourage them to continue promoting Indonesian batik to international societies,” said Retno.

(Writer: Nabilla Ramadhian | Editor: Kahfi Dirga Cahya)

Source: https://travel.kompas.com/read/2020/10/05/174000427/alasan-batik-indonesia-diakui-unesco-sebagai-warisan-budaya-dunia?page=all#page2