The communities of Rusunawa Marunda and Rawa Bebek in North Jakarta, Indonesia, are producing batik pieces that represent the city. Batik is a traditional cloth made using a wax-resist dyeing technique and is considered a living heritage because it records what is happening in society and perpetuates the story in a piece of fabric to wear.
Anderson Sitorus, a history expert of the Indonesia Hidden Heritage (IHH) community, explains that batik is more than just fabric, it is an expression of culture and history. The process of making batik involves drawing patterns on the cloth with wax, which acts as a resist for the dye. The wax-covered areas resist the dyes, and once the wax is removed, the pattern is revealed. The intricate designs and patterns on batik fabrics depend on the region of Indonesia they come from and the interpretation of the artist.
The batik produced by women in Rusunawa Marunda and Rawa Bebek represents the capital and is an essential part of their livelihoods. The women are members of the Rumah Singgah Desa Batik Community, an organization founded in 2019 to preserve the art of batik making and provide livelihood opportunities for women.
The organization provides training and support for the production and marketing of batik pieces, and the women work together to produce high-quality products. They take orders from individuals and companies for various events and occasions, including weddings and conferences.
The community’s batik pieces are unique, reflecting the culture and traditions of the area. The designs often feature Jakarta landmarks like the National Monument and the city’s distinctive orange public transportation system known as the TransJakarta.
The community’s batik-making effort is also part of a broader movement to preserve Indonesian culture and promote local economies. As one of Indonesia’s most significant exports, batik has become synonymous with Indonesia’s heritage and culture.
Anderson Sitorus notes that batik-making has a rich history dating back to the 13th century, with various regions developing their own unique styles and techniques. The art of batik has faced many challenges over the years, including the commercialization of production and the erosion of traditional techniques.
However, initiatives like the Rumah Singgah Desa Batik Community are working to preserve the tradition of batik making while providing a sustainable livelihood for women. By embracing the creative potential of batik, communities are not only preserving their heritage but also actively contributing to their local economy. This is a shining example of the power of culture and tradition to support communities’ growth and development.
