The government is highlighting batik not just as a patterned cloth, but as a work of high art that is full of symbols, philosophies, and local cultural values. UNESCO's recognition as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2009 affirms the uniqueness of its making-from dyeing to natural colouring-that makes batik an irreplaceable Indonesian cultural identity.
In an effort to expand the international market, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, visited Oey Soe Tjoen Batik House in Pekalongan on 28 June. She conveyed the government's plan to hold a global batik exhibition, and encouraged the involvement of special curators so that foreign designers can recognise the difference between authentic and imitation batik. This is expected to increase the competitiveness and selling point of batik in the global market.
