As Malaysia gears up to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the SC will lead this initiative to elevate Malaysian batik within the Finance Track which is led by the Ministry of Finance.

Themed "Batik Lestari” (Sustainable Batik), the competition seeks to uncover the diverse talents across the nation, inviting local artisans to contribute their unique interpretation of Malaysian batik designs.

The competition also aims to promote sustainability, encouraging participants to explore eco-friendly practices and materials in their design and production.

The winning designs will be embedded in various elements to the leaders and delegates at the ASEAN 2025 events, embodying Malaysia’s image on the international stage.

Entries for the competition will open on 16 September 2024 in conjunction with Malaysia Day. It is open to all Malaysians aged 18 and above. The closing date for entries will be 18 October 2024.

Entries will be judged on overall presentation, cultural authenticity and creativity in adopting Malaysian motif elements. Other criteria include theme interpretation, design creativity and colour combination.

Out of the total submissions, the top 40 designs will be shortlisted, with winners to be announced in early December 2024.

Attractive cash prizes await the top three winners in addition to consolation prizes. A special recognition will also be given to artisans who incorporate eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices, such as natural dyes and waste reduction.

Commenting on the competition and Batik Lestari initiative, the SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi emphasised the SC’s commitment in empowering local artisans and entrepreneurs.

“This is in line with the SC’s goals of fostering inclusive growth and supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs),” he said. “It is also an opportunity for the SC to nurture the creative economy and champion local artisans.”

Kumpulan MyCreative Ventures Chief Executive Officer Zainariah Johari said the Batik Lestari initiative is a golden opportunity to reimagine and bring Malaysian batik to the next level.

“MyCreative Ventures plays an important role in bringing the necessary expertise in reaching out to the creative industries and supporting the competition through its database and experience in supporting the creative industry since 2012,” she said.

For details of the competition, please visit www.batiklestari.my.