A 5-Minute Guide to Indonesian Batik
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Malaysians love batik for its cultural roots, traditional flair, and - most of all - versatility. Batik doesn’t look out of place at formal events, and won’t stand out as everyday wear. It adds a dash of local identity wherever you go.
At the same time, batik also has strong roots in Indonesia. In fact, Indonesian batik is a popular purchase for many Malaysian tourists because of their designs and price points, and Batam is no exception.
However, not all batik is the same! Modernization has evolved batik into both premium artistry and affordable commodity. You don’t want to unnecessarily overpay or buy the wrong kind of material.
So, here’s a quick guide to understand Indonesian batik before your next shopping trip in Batam.
High quality materials aren’t always the best choice
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Whether you’re buying fabric or a finished product, batik is predominantly printed on cotton, silk, and rayon - a semi-synthetic fibre.
Silk is by far the most expensive, and of the highest quality. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the one to buy! Silk is more delicate, cannot be machine-washed, and requires special care. It’s something for special events or occasions instead of everyday wear.
On the other hand, cotton is much better for everyday wear. It’s cheaper and much more durable against wear-and-tear. On top of that, cotton is much more breathable than silk, so it’ll be more comfortable in our warm climate. A good quality cotton batik outfit is still considered acceptable at most semi-formal events.
More recently, batik is also printed on rayon and other synthetic fibres. These can be made to be more comfortable to wear and have better draping (which is perfect for dresses). However, some, like rayon, can only be dry-cleaned.
It’s best to have an idea of what you’re going to use the batik for before choosing a fabric!
Quick reference:
Everyday wear - Go cotton
Fancy event - Go silk
Stylish dress - Consider Rayo
Indonesian batik is less colourful than Malaysian batik
Photo sources (L-R): SisRasa | Semarang Pos via Seasia
If you’re picturing bright colours with large floral prints, you’re likely thinking of Malaysian batik. In contrast, Indonesian batik is more earth-toned, intricate, and with repeating patterns.
This difference is partly cultural, partly technical. Malaysian batik is inspired by natural flora motifs and originally made using brush-painting. On the other hand, Indonesian batik is inspired by religion and philosophy and originally made using a fine-tipped tool called the canting or by block-printing.
Even though batik production can be done with modern tools today, the design aesthetics and values that came from these traditional methods still remain.
So if you prefer eye-catching colours with bold designs, look for Malaysian batik! But if you prefer understated elegance with darker colours, then Indonesian batik is the one for you. Both types of batik are perfectly acceptable in Malaysia.
Indonesian batik patterns carry deep philosophical meanings
As we mentioned earlier, Indonesian batik isn’t just a tapestry of design; it’s also a tapestry of stories and symbolism. Different regions have their own variants and motifs, each with their own stories and meaning. Here are a few:
Batik Parang
Photo source: Indonesia Travel
This motif is inspired by waves crashing against jagged rocks on the sea coast. It symbolises protection, balance, and resilience against hardship. In legend, a prince in danger was kept saved because he was wearing a Batik Parang!
There are also variants of this motif, such as Parang Barong, which symbolises wisdom. Here’s a list of Batik Parang variants and their meanings.
Sekar Jagad
Photo source: Ambisius Wiki
Appearing like patchwork, the name has its roots in both Dutch and Javanese influences. Kar comes from the Dutch word kaart (meaning ‘map’) and Jagad means ‘world” in Javanese. So, this patchwork design is meant to represent a map that symbolises beauty in diversity. If you look closely, the patches usually contain flower motifs. This is because sekar means ‘Flower’ in Javanese!
Batik Kawung
Photo source: Sintesa Konveksi
This motif is based on the cross-section of the kolang kaling, the fruit of the Areca palm tree which is used in many Indonesian desserts. For a time, this was a pattern preferred by leaders because it symbolises self-control, justice, and inner strength.
Finding batik in Batam is easy. Just (ba)take a ferry from Berjaya Waterfront!
Photo source: Media Center Batam News
In Batam, you’ll find a huge selection of batik shops - from affordable wear to designer boutiques. Here are a few places to start:
- Nagoya Hill Mall (multiple shops)
- BCS Mall (multiple shops)
- Batik Factory Outlet (batik wear and accessories)
Berjaya Waterfront is your gateway to Batam, with air-conditioned ferries getting you there in under 2 hours! Click here to view their ferry schedules and book your tickets!
If you’re looking for cheap souvenirs to get in Batam, check out our list of grocery items that make great gifts.