Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, unveils the Collaborative Batik, Indonesia’s tribute to ASEAN. Photo: ekon.go.id
VOInews, Jakarta: On the occasion of ASEAN’s 57th anniversary celebrated at the ASEAN Centre in Jakarta on Thursday, August 8, 2024, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto unveiled the Collaborative Batik, Indonesia's contribution to ASEAN. This launch is part of an effort to highlight the burgeoning collaboration within the creative economy sector.
The creative economy has experienced significant growth, with its economic value reaching IDR 1,415 trillion in 2023 and generating over 22 million jobs. Batik, as a premier product of this sector, holds substantial potential in driving the growth of the creative economy, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and female entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia.
"This initiative aligns with ASEAN Community Vision: One Vision, One Identity, One Community, aiming to create a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN community while showcasing our collective history, culture, and traditions," Minister Airlangga remarked during his speech.
The collaborative batik features unique designs inspired by the distinctive flowers of each ASEAN member state, reflecting the beauty of the ASEAN community’s diversity. The launch presented three batik designs: Udan Liris Sewelas Negari, symbolizing prayers and hopes for improvement; Lumbon Sewelas Negari, representing wisdom through the harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, and social values; and Sekar Jagad Sewelaas Negari, which reflects the cultural diversity and beauty of the region. "Let us continue to support and celebrate such initiatives that bring us closer together and highlight the unique beauty and creativity of ASEAN," Minister Airlangga added.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including the ASEAN Secretary-General, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Agrarian and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency, the Foreign Minister of Laos, the Chair of the Indonesian Cultural Heritage Foundation (WBI), and the Deputy for Coordination of International Economic Cooperation at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs.
Source: ekon.go.id
