Batik Lestari Competition shines a spotlight on Malaysia's rich heritage
SC Chairman Datuk Mohammad Faiz Azmi highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Malaysia’s aspirations for inclusivity and creativity.
KUALA LUMPUR - A kaleidoscope of colours and patterns unfolded as Malaysia's timeless batik tradition reached its zenith at the Malam Batik Lestari gala night, where the Batik Lestari Design Competition crowned its most promising talents.
Organised by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) in collaboration with MyCreative Ventures Group (MyCV), the competition celebrated the timeless artistry of batik while spotlighting its evolving role in a modern world.
The event, held on a festive night with about 400 attendees ranging from government officials to batik artisans, marked the first of its kind.
It is part of a broader initiative to honour Malaysia’s cultural heritage and align with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call to elevate batik as a global symbol of national pride.
SC Chairman Datuk Mohammad Faiz Azmi highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Malaysia’s aspirations for inclusivity and creativity.
“Batik Lestari echoes the 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,” he said.
The winners of the nationwide competition, held between Sept 16 and Oct 31, were celebrated for their exceptional creativity and cultural authenticity.
The grand prize went to Muhammad Nazri Mat Nasir, who walked away with RM30,000 and a trophy.
Athirahjuhari x Shudd and Elegen Dinamik clinched the second and third prizes, earning RM15,000 and RM10,000 respectively, along with trophies.
An award recognising sustainability in batik-making was presented to Rozi Mohammad Nor and Elegen Dinamik for their innovative use of natural dyes and waste reduction techniques.
MyCV Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Zainariah Johari described the competition as a platform for reimagining the boundaries of batik.
“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.
“By fostering creativity and sustainability, we aim to empower a new generation of talent to carry forward this rich heritage onto the global stage, inspiring the world with the vibrant stories that would leave a lasting imprint on our minds like that of the batik block prints,” she mentioned.
Adding to the festive spirit was the People’s Choice Award, where guests voted for their favourite designs and a series of interactive activities planned to extend the celebration.
The Batik Lestari Festival, which ran from Dec 5 until Dec 6 at the SC in Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, will offer visitors a chance to engage with the art through exhibitions, workshops and a curated batik market featuring brands like Bujins Batik, Fleur Batik and The Mokara.
Visitors can also enjoy the screening of the animated film ‘Batik Girl’, celebrating batik’s charm and storytelling potential.
As Malaysia prepares for its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, some of the competition’s winning designs will be featured during official events, symbolising the nation’s cultural richness and artistic innovation.
