MP: Banyumas Batik Supports Culture-Based Tourism Development
Banyumas (ANTARA) - A member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Siti Mukaromah, stated that the signature batik of Banyumas Regency, Central Java, has the potential to support the development of culture-based tourism due to its unique motifs and character, which serve as a significant attraction for tourists.
“Banyumas batik possesses extraordinary uniqueness, which will undoubtedly become an attraction for both international and domestic tourists,” she said during the opening of the 2026 Putra Putri Batik Hadipriyanto competition in Banyumas, Central Java, on Sunday.
According to her, the uniqueness of Banyumas batik is evident in motifs that incorporate various local environmental and cultural elements, such as taro leaves, bamboo, coconut, coconut blossoms, animals, and even currency.
She assessed that this diversity of motifs can serve as an ethnic identity that strengthens Banyumas’ appeal as a tourist destination.
She further noted that the development of batik is closely linked to the creative economy, as it involves community creativity, ranging from the batik-making and designing processes to transforming the fabric into various fashion models.
Therefore, she encouraged continuous activities that introduce batik to the younger generation to ensure this cultural heritage is preserved and evolves with the times.
“It is not just about the ability to walk the catwalk, but also about being able to provide creations, models, and batik creativity,” she said.
The legislator, affectionately known as Erma, stated that the National Batik Day commemoration on 2nd October should not merely be a ceremonial event, but should serve as a momentum to strengthen the preservation and development of batik.
“This is an event that must be maintained and preserved; it should not be limited to mere commemoration, but something we must actively protect,” she said.
In her view, young people can take various roles within the batik ecosystem, from batik-making and designing to wearing and promoting batik.
Erma added that such involvement could simultaneously create economic opportunities and support the tourism sector.
Meanwhile, the organiser of the event, Tirsa Enggar, stated that the 2026 Putra Putri Batik Hadipriyanto competition aims to introduce Banyumas batik, specifically Batik Hadipriyanto, to the wider public, particularly the younger generation.
“So that young people know that batik is not only identical to wedding guest attire or for older people,” he said.
He noted that the event was attended by 57 participants, exceeding the initial target of 50 participants.
According to him, participants came not only from Banyumas but also from several other regions, including Yogyakarta and Tangerang.
He expressed hope that this event, which was previously held in 2021, could be organised annually.
Tirsa acknowledged that interest in Banyumas’ signature batik, including Batik Hadipriyanto, remains lower within the Banyumas region compared to other areas, necessitating wider promotional and socialisation efforts.