Scarce local inputs trouble Indonesian batik weavers

Indonesia’s traditional batik weavers are finding it difficult to obtain locally made inputs like textile yarns and colouring agents, which is forcing the majority of the textile producers to use chemical colouring agents, in spite of being aware that these are toxic and even harmful to the environment.

During a discussion on Indonesian cultural heritage, Irma Hutabarat, Chairwoman of Miyara Sumatera Foundation, said in spite of batik textiles forming a part of the country’s cultural heritage, not many people are keen on using local textiles.

Ms. Irma said there are some specific kind of batik textiles that are believed to be valuable and such rare pieces representing cultural legacy and art need to be preserved.

Making a mention of Ulos sibolang, she said, the blue-coloured traditional woven fabric hailing from the ethnic of Batak in North Sumatra is now becoming extinct. The fabric has an important place in the life of Batak communities as people of these communities wear it during traditional ceremonies to commemorate the joy of life, she added.

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