The recognition by UNESCO to batik as the world’s intangible cultural heritage from Indonesia on October 2, 2009, had made all Indonesians proud, he recalled.
Related news: Jokowi pushes aggressive batik preservation message to Indonesians
Hence, it would be the responsibility of the people to preserve and develop batik as part of the nation's culture.
"Alhamdulillah (Thank God), the number of batik producers has grown rapidly. Batik is worn by all people, performed with at world class fashion shows, and it also benefits the people," Jokowi added.
"I am glad to hear that high school students here received batik lessons. I asked one of them, they received (batik lesson) three times a week," he said.
Indonesia's achievements in the development of the batik industry have reflected the dedication, sincerity, and passion of craftsmen, artists and businessmen in the field, Jokowi said.
Related news: Jokowi leads National Batik Day celebrations in Solo
As many as 500 batik craftsmen took part in the ceremony held at the Mangkunegaran Palace, Solo.
Present at the event among others was Industry Minister Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of State Secretary Pratikno, head of the Financial Service Authority Wimboh Santoso, Deputy Foreign Minister AM Fachir, head of the National Crafts Council Mufidah Jusuf Kalla, and Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo.
EDITED BY INE
Related news: Exports of batik industry reach nearly US$18 million
Translator: Hanni Sofia, Sri Haryati
Editor: Azizah Fitriyanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
