The name "Batik Betawi Terogong" isn't just a label; it holds deep meaning for Siti Laela. "People know Terogong as an apartment and an international school, but I want Terogong to be known for its batik," she said. Through batik, she hopes to elevate the name of her hometown in South Jakarta.
Mrs. Siti Laela's journey has certainly not been easy. One of her biggest challenges comes from the negative perceptions of some people. "Why bother making batik these days? Just make money easily," she said, echoing a comment she often hears. But for Mrs. Siti Laela, it's not just about money. It's about preserving a culture that's nearly lost.
Source: Documentation of Batik Betawi Terogong by 2Madison
Furthermore, other challenges come from limited human resources and the onslaught of the more instantaneous printing and screen-printing batik industry. Despite this, Mrs. Siti's enthusiasm remains unwavering. Mrs. Siti Laela hopes the younger generation will participate in preserving it. "If another country claims it, then they'll get angry, even though their own young people don't want to learn about the culture," she said. She encouraged young people to be more caring, one way being to wear batik as a form of appreciation.
Source: Documentation of Batik Betawi Terogong by 2Madison
On Jakarta's anniversary, Mrs. Siti Laela expressed her high hopes that the public would love and appreciate local products more. "I want people to appreciate local products more, including Betawi batik," she said enthusiastically.
Through Batik Betawi Terogong, Mrs. Siti Laela not only creates beautifully patterned fabrics, but also reweaves cultural threads that were almost lost.
Resource person: Mrs. Siti Laela
Interviewer: Yuni
Author: Noverdy R
