Maritime Graduate Becomes Full-Time Batik Maker, Preserving Heritage Art

A passion for traditional art has led Nur Shakilah Abdul Kadir, a graduate in Maritime Management from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, to fully immerse herself in the batik industry. The 25-year-old sees significant potential in the batik sector, not only for business growth but also as a means to preserve Malaysia's rich artistic heritage.

Kadir's journey into batik began with her sister, Nur Farhana, who has a marketing background. Their venture into full-time batik production started in 2023 in Kampung Pasir Panjang. The inspiration came from their father, Abdul Kadir Muda, 67, who initially sold batik at Pasar Payang. Witnessing the positive reception to his products, the sisters decided to create their own.

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I really love the arts. Batik gives me satisfaction because I can pour my ideas and creativity onto a white cloth until it becomes a work of art.

They learned the art of batik making from a friend of their father's. Initially, they borrowed equipment before investing in their own. Kadir emphasizes that mastering batik requires patience and meticulousness, as each design is unique. She finds deep satisfaction in expressing her creativity on fabric, transforming a plain white cloth into a work of art.

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We are still using the traditional method, batik canting and batik blok, because we want to maintain the authenticity of the work.

The sisters are committed to preserving the authenticity of their craft by using traditional methods, specifically batik canting (wax-pen) and batik blok (block printing). Their products feature a blend of modern and classic patterns, with loose-fitting cuts suitable for women of all ages. Beyond their stall at Pasar Payang, they market their batik through social media platforms to reach customers nationwide.

Kadir expresses pride in being part of the younger generation contributing to the batik industry, which increasingly needs new participants to remain relevant. They are also planning to establish a small gallery at their home to showcase their collections.

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Insya-Allah, we are also in the process of preparing a batik exhibition space at home as a small gallery to make it easier for customers to see the collections we produce.