Preserving batik's legacy for future generations with modern twists

AS Malaysian batik experiences a resurgence, it faces a unique challenge: preserving its cultural legacy while appealing to younger generations.

Gen Z’s bold approach to fashion presents an opportunity to keep batik alive by making it a vibrant part of Malaysia’s fashion scene, seamlessly blending its rich heritage into everyday wear and contemporary style choices for future generations.

Batik Tektura owner Azrina Lasa believes that batik is experiencing a revival as more people embrace their cultural heritage through fashion.

While this resurgence is promising for the batik industry, she stressed the importance of sustained efforts to preserve batik's charm and ensure its relevance for future generations.

INCORPORATING BATIK INTO DAILY LIFE

“One approach is to design batik clothing that aligns with the lifestyle of the younger generation. For example, as many workplaces transition to business casual or even fully-casual dress codes, there is an opportunity to create versatile batik-inspired workwear.

“Designers can explore innovative options such as casual batik blazers, jackets, cardigans, hoodies, dresses and tops tailored for the modern office.

“Furthermore, with the growing focus on healthy living, batik can expand its presence into fitness accessories like yoga mats and sports bags, blending tradition with contemporary functionality,” she told Sinar Daily.

Azrina recounted how her journey with batik began in 2017, sparked by a desire to create minimalist, contemporary designs that moved beyond traditional floral motifs.

Collaborating with a partner, she experimented with architecture-inspired patterns, incorporating elements such as lines, geometric shapes and symmetry; seamlessly merging traditional hand-blocking techniques (batik terap) with modern aesthetics.

“Based in Selangor, we collaborate with multi-generational artisans from Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.

“Over time, our unique designs gained popularity, leading to collaborations with Malaysian designers, who infuse motifs with influences from local architecture, like Terengganu Malay houses and global styles, including Bauhaus and Art Deco.

“I like to think of our batik as a piece of art. It embodies the thoughtfulness, artistic expression and soul of Malaysian designers while showcasing the refined craftsmanship of our batik artisans, who carefully stamp each wax line with precision and care,” she said.

FROM FORMAL TO CONTEMPORARY

Batik Boutique founder Amy Blair highlighted a shift in the perception of Malaysian batik, which was once seen primarily as formal or ceremonial attire.

Today, it has evolved into a versatile and stylish option for everyday wear, as younger generations embrace batik through modern tailoring, contemporary designs, and innovative collaborations with designers who infuse fresh and relatable elements into this traditional art form.

“To appeal to these audiences, it is essential to reimagine batik in ways that align with their lifestyles such as casual wear, accessories or home decor, while preserving its traditional craftsmanship.

“At Batik Boutique, we employ strategies like storytelling, digital campaigns and collaborations with social media influencers to seamlessly blend heritage with modernity, ensuring batik remains relevant and cherished across generations,” she told Sinar Daily.

Blair also shared how she first moved to Malaysia 17 years ago and was immediately captivated by its vibrant culture, with batik standing out as an exceptional art form that tells stories through fabric.

What truly inspired her was not only batik’s stunning aesthetic but also the remarkable craftsmanship behind it, and its role in empowering women, providing them with opportunities for financial independence.

“I saw a unique opportunity to preserve this heritage while modernising it to create sustainable, globally-appealing products. It has been profoundly rewarding to collaborate with local artisans and bring Malaysian stories to the world through the timeless art of batik,” she said.

For a deeper dive into Azrina's Batik Tektura and Blair's Batik Boutique, be sure to check out their websites – where tradition meets style in the most vibrant way!