Batik in history

Use of batik in the traditional couture has its roots in the early days of Malay civilization. Worn by royals to nobles to peasants, batik has manifested itself as a popular and practical indigenous crafts. Arts whose application transcend boundaries of social status. In literary tradition, mention of batik has appeared in a number of folklores. Mention of batik as a parting gifts of love in Hikayat Malim Deman and as a bestow of honor in Hikayat Hang Tuah. In the more recent cinematic art - in the movie Sumpah Orang Minyak (P. Ramli 1968) batik was portrayed as an expression of forbidden love. And in Fenomena (M.Nasir 1996) Ramona in batik lepas (one piece batik cloth) taking the mandi bunga (flower bath)was simply memorable.

The definitive history of batik is obscure but batik artifact of 2000 years had been found [ see www.story-of-batik.com]. Wherever its origin, it is a heritage art of the human civilisation.

Batik in recent time
Use of batik in recent time was given impetus with it being accorded national status - worn by dignitaries for official and state function. Often visit to batik factories were made part and parcel of state visit and wearing of batik at state reception by foreign dignitaries symbolize closeness of relationship between nations.

Development in batik design
Batik design has evolved from the original version of prints (batik terap) to assimilate influences of popular art particularly Indonesian's Batik Jawa design. In hand-drawn batik, the tjanting method earlier used by Indonesian found its way into Malaysia coupled with introduction of dye suitable for silk printing lead to a boom in batik design industry in mid 90s. Batik Terengganu, particularly the block print has a unique position in batik tradition even if it is said to be influenced by Javanese style. As far as I can remember, local manufacturers persisted on its technique and design uniqueness though faced with imports of Indonesian blocks.

Challenge in the industry
Development of batik is dependent on various factors ranging from design, materials and craftsman to popular trends. The boom of late 90s has considerably waned due to over supply and the lack of quality control. Copycats were the order of the day. The industry's dependency on imported textiles and dyes prove to be its Achilles heel. Without a government trade protection policy, the high cost of raw material imports, the local producers over-competition and changing taste to imported prints, batik now appear to head to its twilight.

The batik future
Batik survival and evolution through the ages is a factor that will ensure it longevity. The art shall survive the industry and with the cyclical fashion trends, it may be popular again. What it takes is new ideas and approach.