PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA — Indonesian batik continues to evolve—not only as a cultural emblem but also as a modern, eco-friendly lifestyle choice. At the opening of Gelar Batik Nusantara (GBN) 2025 in Pasaraya Blok M, Jakarta (July 30), the Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and advancing the national batik industry so it remains adaptive to changing times, including through the introduction of palm-based eco-batik.
Palm-based batik is an industry innovation that uses sustainable palm oil–derived stearin wax instead of fossil-based paraffin. This approach reflects the growing focus on environmental conservation, especially among younger generations who are increasingly sustainability-conscious.
“I want GBN to be a movement—a reminder for all of us to love and preserve batik as part of our national identity. This is not outdated—it’s classy, modern, and has the potential to grow into a long-term industry,” said Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita in an official statement quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com on Sunday (Aug. 3, 2025).
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To expand batik’s appeal among Generation Z, Kemenperin, through the Directorate General of Small, Medium, and Various Industries (IKMA), is working with the Indonesian Batik Foundation (YBI) to promote product innovation, improve production efficiency, and educate the public on batik as an authentic, eco-conscious urban lifestyle.
The minister emphasized that today’s youth demand uniqueness, social value, and sustainability from the products they choose. “Pride alone is not enough. We all need to buy and wear batik. By doing so, we not only preserve cultural heritage but also support the livelihoods of artisans across the country,” he said.
Currently, Indonesia’s batik industry spans 11 provinces, with nearly 6,000 business units and around 200 SME hubs. However, post-pandemic challenges have caused a significant decline in artisan numbers. Eco-innovations like palm-based batik offer a pathway to engage new markets while strengthening the national batik ecosystem.
GBN 2025 also features educational programs such as the webinars “Batik for Gen Z: Tradition Meets Trend” and “Love Nusantara Textiles: Applying Environmental Sustainability in Batik”. A highlight session, “Exploring Eco-Friendly Palm Batik”, spotlighted the potential of sustainable palm oil in transforming the batik industry.
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This year, Batik Merawit from Cirebon was named the icon for National Batik Day 2025. The GBN exhibition runs from July 30 to August 3, showcasing SME booths, fashion shows, interactive discussions, and creative workshops.
“We want to show that batik can grow with the times. Innovations like palm-based batik bridge cultural preservation with environmental responsibility. This is the new face of Nusantara textiles, ready to welcome Indonesia’s Golden Era 2045,” the minister concluded.
With synergy between the government, industry players, and the younger generation, Indonesian batik is entering a new chapter—modern, green, and proudly national. (P2)
