Batik Fest spurs greater interest in batik art
KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Fest is a good platform to spur greater interest in batik art, especially among the younger generation, while offering an opportunity for entrepreneurs and other players in the industry to push their products effectively.
Running into its third year, the event which was held at Malaysia Tourism Centre (Matic) in Jalan Ampang here, provides exposure for the art form.
Batik Fest founder Nisa Kasnoon said for the younger people, they could learn more about local batik art.
“They are able to see what the art is, and from there, develop an interest in batik.
“This will augur well for the future of batik in Malaysia, when the young become appreciative of the art.
“Through this event, people will understand there are various types of batik.
“And yes, overall, Malaysian batik is cheap, but sometimes people want to have something made exclusive, and that’s where the high price tag comes in.”
At the event, visitors tried their hand at batik chanting at some of the booths.
A Karyaneka spokesman said visitors were able to understand the intricacy of the art form.
“We have been promoting batik chanting since 2017 at schools and colleges.
“Karyaneka has its own batik painting set, and those interested can purchase them.
“At RM15.90 each, it comes complete with a batik design with wax and watercolours.
“Through this, we can spark interest among the young, from kindergartens to colleges, on batik art.”
The event also provided an opportunity for batik vendors to be up close with their customers.
Noor Arfa, a household batik fashion house from Terengganu, said local events such as Batik Fest, helped the brand to get customer feedback on their products.
Its promotion supervisor, Ahmad Farid Naim Suhaimi, said for example, pastel colours worked well for both men and women’s clothing, based on high customers’ demand.
“For this event, we brought loose fabrics with the Dua Serumpun style, which was done by hand, using the blocking technique.
“We also brought our best selling product, kain pasang, which is available for purchase.”
For online batik clothing brand Amalynne, batik events are valuable for its business.
Its co-founder, Luqman Alif Suzaili, said it was able to meet batik owners, who shared tips on how to push their products effectively.
“There are pros and cons in having an online business.
“We don’t own a physical shop yet, so participating in events like this gives us a chance to speak to customers, and learn a trade or two from those who have plenty of experience in selling batik,” he added.
The outfit started the business a year ago, selling baju kedah and batik pareo.