“Batik is no longer seen merely as ceremonial attire; it has become part of the identity of Indonesian youth,” said Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita at the National Batik Day Kick-Off on Wednesday.
He noted that batik’s growing cultural relevance presents a strategic opportunity for the industry to strengthen its domestic market through design innovation, quality improvement, and modern marketing strategies.
In the first quarter of 2025, Indonesia’s batik exports reached US$7.63 million, up 76.2 percent from US$4.33 million in the same period last year.
Citing 2020 data from Statistics Indonesia, Kartasasmita said there are 5,946 batik industry players, along with 200 small and medium-sized industry centers spread across 11 provinces.
He urged batik artists and businesses to stay attuned to both domestic and global fashion trends to seize emerging market opportunities.
Kartasasmita highlighted several technological advancements in the batik sector, including the use of electric batik stoves, small-scale liquid waste processors, a digital catalog for Natural Dyes Indexation (NADIN), and even palm oil waste used to produce batik ink.
“Innovation and technology in the batik industry can significantly reduce production costs and energy consumption, supporting sustainability and eco-friendliness,” he said.
However, he emphasized that innovation must be pursued responsibly, ensuring that traditional values are preserved and environmental safety is upheld.
One example is Batik Butimo, a company that developed an automated machine using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology to speed up production while preserving traditional batik methods.
Another is Startup Runsystem, which created an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platform to enhance supply chain management in the batik industry.
Kartasasmita acknowledged that challenges remain in developing innovation and technology within the batik sector. This year, the Ministry and YBI have chosen a theme that highlights these challenges to raise awareness and encourage transformation.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: Anton Santoso
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