"I know a bit about various batik types. At first glance, there are similarities between Sampang and Pamekasan (batik), but in terms of coloring, (Sampang's) is clearer and uses natural colours, very much like Cirebon's batik," Parawansa noted in a statement received in Surabaya, East Java, on Monday.
The governor explained that the similarities reflect cultural intersections across Indonesia. Moreover, batik, with its unique qualities, is more than just a fabric; it is a cultural asset.
"This means that there is a meeting among cultures. Thus, a Batik artist is both an artist and an industry (player). The art of batik itself involves a remarkable (creative) process," she noted.
Although Sampang Batik is beautiful and of top quality, its promotion still needs to be strengthened, similar to Bangkalan's Tanjung Bumi Batik, Pamekasan Batik, and Sumenep's Batik, which are better known in the market.
"This batik is (lesser-known), compared to Tanjung Bumi, which is extraordinary, and then Pamekasan's, which has gained more attention owing to its bold colors and contemporary designs," the governor elaborated.
Parawansa urged the public to support East Java's batik artists.
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With a wide selection of batik to choose from various regions, the governor believes people will never tire of wearing it.
"I want to further develop and support batik artists and the batik industry. This is a great cultural heritage passed down by our ancestors," she noted.
She stressed that hand-written batik, like Sampang's, is too difficult for beginners, showcasing the exceptional skills handed down through generations that are required to master it.
In the same statement, Ali Imron, the owner of the Shalempang Handwritten Batik Workshop, lauded the governor's support in promoting Sampang Batik.
"I am thankful for the support from the East Java Provincial Government and Mrs. Khofifah. We have received halal and green industry certificates, which are still in the process of issuance," Imron stated.
He explained that his workshop has taken part in East Java Province's Trade Mission program in various provinces.
The workshop was founded in 2001, continuing a batik-making tradition preserved by his wife's family, now in its seventh generation.
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Translator: Willi Irawan, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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