Cover A guest tries their hand at batik painting (Photo: Fady Younis)
A guest tries their hand at batik painting (Photo: Fady Younis)
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The Batik Lestari Design Competition organised by Securities Commission Malaysia and MyCreative Ventures celebrates the artistry and heritage of Malaysian batik by honouring its artisans, aiming to propel the local craft to a global stage
Malaysian batik, a textile craft form with over a century of enduring artistry, was celebrated at the inaugural Batik Lestari Design Competition. The innovative initiative by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and MyCreative Ventures Group (MyCV) spotlighted batik as a rich cultural heritage while recognising the artisans who preserve its traditions and integrate sustainable practices into their craft.
Held from 16 September to 31 October 2024, the nationwide competition culminated in the grand Malam Batik Lestari gala on 6 December, bringing together 400 distinguished guests. Competition winners were awarded for their exceptional designs at the gala before an audience that included senior government officials, corporate leaders, fashion designers and batik artisans.
Read more: A history untold: The timeless allure of Malaysian batik
MyCreative Ventures Group, established to propel Malaysia’s creative industries through strategic investments, have previously spearheaded efforts like RIUH, CENDANA and BASKL. The Batik Lestari initiative embodies Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s vision to elevate the batik craft as a Malaysian symbol of identity and pride.
Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail (right) launches the Batik Lestari Festival at the SC, Bukit Kiara on 5-6 December 2024. Looking on are SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi and SC Managing Director Datin Paduka Azalina Adham (Photo: Brstmode)
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With an eye toward Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, selected designs from competition winners will be featured during the ASEAN Finance Ministers Meetings and related events, taking Malaysia’s batik artistry to a global stage.
SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi underscored the competition’s dual mission of creativity and sustainability, committed to proving that cultural industries can thrive in a modern yet circular economy. “Batik Lestari echoes broader values of Malaysia MADANI—the vision of a developed, inclusive and compassionate Malaysia. One where our collective strength is reflected not only in our economy but in the daily lives of our people and our art.”
Grand Prize winner, Muhammad Nazri bin Mat Nasir (Photo: courtesy Securities Commission)
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MyCV CEO Zainariah Johari added, “The Batik Lestari initiative is more than just a celebration of batik. It is a platform for artisans and designers to redefine its boundaries, blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary innovation.”
See also: Modernising tradition: How young leaders are reviving Asia’s cultural heritage
Zainariah hopes that fostering creativity and sustainability through initiatives like Batik Lestari will empower a new generation of talent to advance Malaysian batik to new heights, “inspiring the world with the vibrant stories that would leave a lasting imprint on our minds like that of the batik block prints.” She firmly believes the essence of tradition lies not just in preservation but in evolution.
The public were welcomed to browse Batik Lestari Design Competition submissions
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The Batik Lestari Design Competition saw a seven-member jury panel judge more than 80 entries on overall presentation, cultural authenticity, and creativity in adapting Malaysian elements within motifs.
Don’t miss: Her Majesty Queen Azizah of Malaysia shares the importance of preserving traditional crafts
Muhammad Nazri bin Mat Nasir, whose work captivated judges with its authenticity and exquisite attention to detail, received the grand prize of RM30,000 and a trophy. Athirahjuhari x Shudd and Elegen Dinamik, the second and third-prize winners, received RM15,000 and RM10,000, respectively, and a trophy. Five consolation prizes of RM2,000 went to the runners-up.
A special sustainable batik award recognised the efforts of Rozi bin Mohammad Nor and Elegen Dinamik for their commitment to eco-friendly practices in their batik-making, including the use of natural dyes and waste reduction. Adding an interactive element to the evening, attendees voted for their favourite designs in the People’s Choice Award.
From 5 to 6 December, the Securities Commission opened the doors of its Buki Kiara premises, extending the Batik Lestari Festival to the public. Visitors could browse the Batik exhibition showcasing the Batik Lestari Design Competition submissions. Other engaging activities included hands-on workshops to discover traditional and modern batik-making techniques. The award-winning animated short film Batik Girl also screened, telling the story of a young girl drawn into the magical world of batik painting.
A curated batik market was also open to the public, featuring renowned local brands like Bujins Batik, Fleur Batik, Udara Batik, BatikTektura, KAWI, The Mokara, Ruzzgahara, Jadi Batik and Batik Boutique offering pre-order services and ready-to-wear pieces. Malaysia’s batik heritage is more than art—it’s a story, a culture and a promise to future generations.
For more details on the Batik Lestari initiative, visit www.batiklestari.my.
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Photography: Fady Younis
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