Batiks Beyond Java

In 2009, Indonesian batik was designated a 'Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity' by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). Batik has flourished since the late 1800s but, until recently, only in Java. Today, however, other regions in Indonesia have begun creating their own batik motifs, applying their own distinct artistic traditions. Jimmy Afar, a designer from Papua, introduced the art of batik-making to women in Papua. Meanwhile, Nurcahaya from North Sumatra uses traditional Batak patterns in her creations. Tempo English reports on the development of the increasingly diverse batik industry, in celebration of National Batik Day on October 2.