Johor Batik Among Highlights At Southern Zone MADANI Rakyat Programme

JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 17 (Bernama) -- When discussing batik, it is commonly associated with the East Coast and not many are aware that Johor offers its unique batik designs that reflect the identity of this southern state.

While East Coast batik usually features patterns inspired by nature such as awan larat, plants, flowers and animals, Johor batik stands out with motifs like black pepper, pineapples, gambus (a traditional string instrument) and buah tampoi.

Batik entrepreneur Maimunah Yaacob, 56, said Johor’s unique batik pattern provides an alternative for enthusiasts seeking modern and versatile clothing options.

“Besides highlighting motifs that symbolise Johor’s identity, I also diversify the patterns to meet customer preferences and adapt them to the craft products we create,” she told Bernama.

She was met at the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s booth during the Southern Zone MADANI Rakyat 2024 programme at Dataran UTM, Skudai here today.

Typically, Johor batik is produced using block printing techniques or ecoprint using plants to create patterns, while the colours chosen reflect current fashion trends to meet customer demands.

Maimunah, who received guidance from the Southeast Johor Development Authority (KEJORA) and has been in the field for nearly 30 years, said that Johor Batik has received very encouraging demand, even attracting orders from overseas customers.

The Johor native and founder of Ranorm Batik Creation boutique in Kota Tinggi said she also supplies batik to other KEJORA entrepreneurs, who use it to craft products like handbags, briefcases and more.

The Southern Zone MADANI Rakyat programme serves as a platform for the government to inform the public about the achievements and benefits of the MADANI Economy through various initiatives and ongoing commitments to empower the people, entrepreneurs and industries.

-- BERNAMA