19-05-2025
Special batik banner ready for ‘525 Peace Walk' in Kuching
Lo applies colour onto his design on the banner, as (from right) Yeo, Adrienne and Chong look on.
KUCHING (May 20): A batik-making workshop here recently produced a special-themed banner meant for the Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL)'s '525 Peace Walk' in the city, set for flag-off at the Kuching Waterfront's Amphitheatre this Sunday (May 25).
Themed 'Steps of Peace: Peace Walk for Unity', this annual programme is organised by the HWPL, and it aims to unite individuals, families and civil societies to walk together for peace, understanding and sustainable coexistence.
Measuring six feet (over 180cm) in length, the batik banner stands as a collaborative creation symbolising unity and harmony, as well as the creativity and teamwork of all those attending the workshop here, which was facilitated by Within Arts Reach, in collaboration with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and 11 Ridgeway.
During the hands-on session, the participants learned to sketch the original designs, handle various types of 'canting' (hot wax applicator) tools, apply the basic colour theory, and use batik dyes to complete their artwork.
'The activity served both as an introduction to traditional techniques and as a reflection of Malaysia's cultural diversity and shared heritage,' said the HWPL in a statement issued at the start of the workshop.
Photo shows some of the batik pieces made by the workshop participants.
Within Arts Reach founder and facilitator Adrienne Marcus Raja remarked: 'I started this batik workshop series to explore the art in a relaxed, personal space – where creativity could flow without the pressure of perfection; for new friendships to form naturally; and for some to revisit the batik that they remember from school.
'Also, there were others who discovered it for the first time.
'I believe that every single art form should be encouraged to be accessible for those interested, and batik is no exception.'
In her statement, IPYG representative Amelia Yeo said: 'Although the number of participants was small, we hope to continue this workshop in the future to further promote the cultural appreciation and also strengthen the understanding of Malaysia's rich heritage.
'We'd also like to thank Within Arts Reach for their collaboration, which allowed us to promote peace through cultural activities at the same time.
'We look forward to expanding such initiatives with broader community participation.'
Yeo (left) and Adrienne (third right) in a photo-call with some of the workshop participants.
In a special show of support, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang also attended the workshop held at the 11 Ridgeway premises along Jalan Ong Tiang Swee here, and contributed a drawing to the batik banner.
He was accompanied by Councillor Alvin Chong, also the Youth chief for the Batu Kitang branch of Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP).
Those interested in joining the HWPL 525 Peace Walk here this Sunday, should contact Yeo via 016-800 0117 to know more. Arts and Culture batik lead Peace Walk workshop
