DIY Regional Government Compiles Batik Design Catalogues for International Promotion

Yogyakarta (ANTARA) – The Special Region of Yogyakarta’s Tourism Office is preparing a catalogue featuring a range of batik designs unique to Yogyakarta to be introduced internationally through various working visits and by hosting foreign delegations. ‘We are preparing catalogs of our distinctive batik; our batik designs can also be sent to overseas audiences,’ said Iwan Pramana, head of the Creative Economy Development Division of the DIY Regional Tourism Office, in Yogyakarta on Saturday. He added that this will allow international communities to learn about Yogyakarta’s batik, including newly designed motifs that go beyond the traditional, embracing modern styles. ‘Going forward, how we will collaborate with our trade representatives abroad. Moreover, not long ago, when I was accompanying the Deputy Governor, there was a visit from guests from New York as well,’ he said. It is acknowledged that international communities have not yet fully recognised Yogyakarta’s batik, although batik has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage, so campaigns to promote batik abroad are being intensified through cultural events. ‘In terms of the campaign for cultural diplomacy, this is done together with the DIY regional government and the Department of Culture; we often travel abroad,’ he said. He noted that, as the Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X has stated, DIY should become a global fashion hub, and Jogja Fashion Week is on the agenda. ‘So how batik could be used abroad as a draw for fashion going forward. It would not only be a souvenir or keepsake, but also fashion,’ he said. Therefore, the DIY regional government will also work with Indonesian government representatives abroad to promote Yogyakarta batik.