Malaysian Batik Diplomacy Initiative proposed to showcase cultural wealth internationally

BINTULU: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) has put forth a Malaysian Batik Diplomacy Initiative, aiming to promote the use of Malaysian batik as a symbol of the nation’s cultural richness.

This initiative encourages ministers and government officials to present Malaysian batik as a gift of cultural diplomacy.

Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing pointed out that the effort seeks to consistently showcase the ethnic diversity and uniqueness of Malaysian art on a global scale.

He said Motac is committed to applying innovation in popularising Malaysian batik, including its incorporation into winter fashion, as part of the ‘My-Wave’ (Malaysian Wave) initiative on the international stage.

As part of the second phase of the cultural diplomacy initiative, Motac provided 20 sets of traditional Malaysian clothing to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this year.

These sets will be distributed to strategic Malaysian embassies abroad, aligning with the National Cultural Policy (Daken) 2021.

“This cultural diplomacy initiative reinforces Motac’s dedication to empowering Malaysian art, culture, and heritage,” Tiong stated in a Facebook post.

Tiong presenting a souvenir to Mohamad.

He highlighted a strategic collaboration with the Malaysian Craft Council and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aiming to underscore the role of Malaysian ambassadors in promoting the country’s art and culture globally.

Additionally, he noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

“This success not only reflects diplomatic achievements but also forms the basis for the development of Malaysian tourism, art, and culture.

“The understanding between the two countries is expected to have a positive impact on the development and promotion of our cultural wealth, batik.”

Tiong concluded his statement by urging collaboration to enrich and promote Malaysia’s cultural wealth on the world stage.

Among those present during the handover of traditional Malaysian clothing on Thursday (Jan 4) included Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Motac secretary-general Datuk Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman.