TIMES MALAYSIA, MALANG – Batik has become one of the cultural heritages that still holds unique artistic and cultural value. Artists and batik entrepreneurs create their work with contemporary touches that are relevant to the current lifestyle. Just like those artists in Soendari Batik.

Soendari Batik and Art is a batik gallery and boutique that has been managed for generations. It is located at Jl. Soekarno Hatta PTP II No. A2, Mojolangu, Kec. Lowokwaru, Malang City, East Java.

The gallery has become a destination for batik, as well as a place to learn about it in Malang City. With their diverse collection, Soendari Batik showcases various motifs from across Indonesia. 

The History

Soendari Batik & Art was officially established around 2017, originally under the name Jawa Dwipa. However, the family's involvement in batik art and business dates back much further.

Since the 1940’s, Yunita’s grandmother, Eyang Martopuro, had been selling batik produced by her relatives in Tulungagung and distributing it around Mojokerto. "This legacy has been passed down through generations," he said.

An artisan at the Batik Soendari workshop is absorbed in the intricate process of creating batik tulis. (Photo: Muhammad Kamal Fasya)

Today, Soendari Batik & Art was managed by the fourth generation, with Satrya Paramanandana taking the lead in continuing the family tradition and preserving this rich cultural heritage of Indonesia. They focus not only on preservation, but also on the commercial aspect.

Various Collections

The gallery offers a wide range of batik products, from hand-drawn and stamped batik fabrics in various patterns and colors, to derivative products such as clothing, bags, and accessories.

They can produce around 8 to 10 pieces of batik fabric per day. However, this also depends on the methods and techniques used. Hand-drawn batik (batik tulis) takes significantly longer to produce compared to stamped batik (batik cap).

An artisan at the Batik Soendari workshop demonstrates batik cap. (Photo: Muhammad Kamal Fasya)

The production process also tailored to meet the needs and preferences of each customer. Most of Soendari Batik's clients are institutions and organizations looking to incorporate batik into their uniforms.

They offers a diverse collection of batik from various regions, including Surakarta, Solo, Tuban, Indramayu, and more. In addition to the collection, visitors can also witness firsthand the batik-making process — from a plain piece of fabric to a finished work of art adorned with intricate patterns.

Topeng Malang (Malang Mask) has become a signature batik motif commonly found in the city of Malang. It has grown into a cultural icon and has been adapted into contemporary batik designs.

"Incorporating local motifs is a way to represent the unique character of a region, adding distinctiveness and identity to each piece," Satrya added.

Batik as Local Symbols

Batik has become a cultural identity that affirms the roots of a tradition. This is evident through its colors and motifs. Coastal batik is known for its brighter colors and diverse patterns, shaped by cultural acculturation with influences from China and Gujarat.

In contrast, inland batik tends to feature more subdued colors, classical motifs, and strong cultural influences from the royal courts of Surakarta and Yogyakarta.

As it continues to evolve, batik adapts to the local culture. According to Satrya, from a commercial perspective, batik motifs will keep evolving—reflected in the rise of contemporary batik styles.

This is different from classical batik, which follows strict standards in the choice of fabric, motifs, colors, and techniques. "Our journey with Batik Soendari has always been guided by a profound respect for our heritage," Satrya said, concluding the interview.

Soendari Batik & Art embodies how tradition and innovation can harmoniously blend, keeping Indonesia’s cultural heritage alive while adapting to modern lifestyles. Through its artistry and evolving motifs, batik continues to symbolize identity, creativity, and timeless elegance.(*)