Sabak Bernam Community College Hosts Malaysia-Indonesia Batik Knowledge Exchange

Kolej Komuniti Sabak Bernam (KKSB) recently hosted the 'Batik Beyond Borders: Malaysia – Indonesia' program, a collaborative initiative with Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan Negeri 9 Bandung, Indonesia. The event, organized by KKSB's Certificate in Fashion and Apparel program in conjunction with its Internationalization Unit, focused on sharing knowledge and insights into the unique art of batik.

The program featured two distinguished guest panelists: Noor Liza Aidie Sapian from Malaysia and Tri Romelah Dini Sutrisno from Indonesia. Dr. Shamsuri Abdullah, Director General of Polytechnic and Community College Education (KPPK), highlighted the program's importance in allowing students to understand the distinct characteristics of Malaysian and Indonesian batik. He emphasized that such initiatives enhance appreciation for textile heritage and encourage new approaches to creating designs that are both creative and innovative, meeting current industry demands.

This international collaboration is a key effort in strengthening Malaysia's technical and vocational education and training (TVET) ecosystem, aligning with the aspirations of the Department of Polytechnic and Community College Education (JPPKK). The event also included special remarks from Heri Sudiana, Principal of SMK Negeri 9 Bandung, and welcomed students from SMK Ungku Aziz and SMK Bagan Terap who attended in person. Furthermore, the program extended its reach to educators and students from other polytechnics and community colleges, vocational colleges, and the general public via a live YouTube broadcast.

Ahmad Arman Nor Anuar, Director of Kolej Komuniti Sabak Bernam, expressed gratitude for the support received. He noted that 'Batik Beyond Borders' builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding signed with SMK Negeri 9 Bandung on May 8 of the previous year. Anuar hopes these knowledge-sharing and international cooperation programs will continue, adapting to evolving times, technological advancements, and industry needs, particularly in empowering the fashion, batik, and creative industries. Such initiatives are expected to provide students and educators with greater international exposure and foster broader collaborative networks between Malaysia and Indonesia.

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(With that), it can increase appreciation for textile heritage and learn new approaches in producing designs that are more creative, innovative, and meet current industry demands.