Indonesia, a nation steeped in cultural richness, commemorates October 2nd as National Batik Day—an occasion that transcends mere fashion, delving into the very essence of Indonesian identity. Beyond the nation’s borders, this celebration extends its reach, echoing in the hearts of Indonesians residing in foreign lands.

Wearing Batik on this day is not merely a sartorial choice; it is a profound expression of national pride and a tangible manifestation of cultural identity. The intricate designs and motifs of Batik serve as a visual language, conveying the stories, traditions, and heritage of Indonesia to the global community.

Even for Indonesians residing abroad, National Batik Day holds a special significance. Communities such as Persatuan Pelajar Indonesia (PPI), the Embassy of Indonesia, and international students hailing from the archipelago come together to mark this day, creating a cultural bridge that spans across continents.

This cultural celebration finds its way into the lives of Indonesian students participating in international programs, exemplified by the International Credit Transfer (ICT) Programme at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Malaysia. Falling on October 2nd, 2023, National Batik Day coincides with the tradition of Malaysian students donning their traditional attire, the Baju Kurung, every Monday.

In this multicultural setting, Indonesian students proudly wore their Baju Batik, creating a visual juxtaposition amidst the sea of Baju Kurung. The distinctiveness of Batik did not go unnoticed; curious gazes turned towards them, sparking conversations that transcended cultural boundaries.

Venturing into communal spaces, locals admired the beauty of Batik, expressing their appreciation with words like, “Cantik sangat batiknya…” (The Batik is truly beautiful). These encounters evolved into meaningful exchanges, with well-wishes for the students’ experiences in Malaysia.

The impact of Batik as a cultural ambassador became even more evident as fellow Indonesians, identifiable by their shared choice of attire, crossed paths. Friendly gestures and exchanged waves served as silent affirmations of a shared identity—a unifying force that transcended geographical distances.

Beyond the celebratory ambiance, this day left an indelible mark on the students, as chance encounters transformed into lasting connections. Surprisingly, some of these newfound friends turned out to be international students residing in the same condominium—a testament to the binding power of Batik.

National Batik Day, in essence, underscores the integral role that Batik plays in shaping the identity of Indonesians. It serves as a cultural emblem that unites individuals, fostering a sense of pride irrespective of geographical boundaries. As Indonesians continue to carry the legacy of Batik with them, this celebrated fabric remains not just a garment but a symbol—a symbol of unity, heritage, and the enduring spirit of a nation.

Author: Fahrul Razi, Accounting. Fahrul Razi, Alexandra Theresia, and Ananda Putri spent one semester at Universiti Teknologi Mara, Cawangan Kelantan, with funding from International Credit Transfer 2023 MBKM program and UPNVJT’s partnership with UiTM Cawangan Kelantan

Editor: KISE