Surely, Sobat Parekraf is familiar with "batik". It has been designated as a Humanitarian Heritage for Oral and Intangible Culture by UNESCO (2009), and, of course, it is not surprising that batik has become one of Indonesia's global cultural heritages. It makes batik a symbol of Indonesia's economic revival in the fashion sub-sector.

An interesting fact is that each region in Indonesia has its own distinctive batik motifs and patterns. Uniquely, each batik motif depicted has its own meaning and philosophical value based on each region's belief and culture.

So, what is the philosophy behind typical Indonesian batik motifs? 

Parang Motif

Known as the oldest batik motif in Indonesia since the Mataram Kingdom era, the Parang motif is one of the most popular batik motifs. Parang is a motif that describes the waves in the sea south of Yogyakarta hitting the cliffs.

Even though it looks simple, resembling the letter "S" arranged diagonally, the Parang motif should not be used haphazardly, one of which is when attending a wedding. The reason is that the Parang motif batik can be interpreted as a weapon that brings bad luck in marriage.

Kawung Motif

Another batik motif with deep meaning and philosophy is the Kawung motif. Known as one of the most popular batik motifs in Central Java and Yogyakarta, the Kawung motif is identical to its round shape, resembling kawung fruit, or palm fruit, arranged geometrically.

In Javanese culture, the geometrically arranged Kawung motif is interpreted as a symbol of human life. In other words, this batik motif reminds people not to forget their origins.

Sekar Jagad Motif

Still originating from the Solo and Yogyakarta areas, Sekar Jagad is a traditional batik motif with philosophical values. It is important to know that Sekar Jagad is taken from the word "kar" which in Dutch means map, and "jagad" which means world in Javanese.

When combined, the philosophy behind the Sekar Jagad motif is not just a world map. However, it also depicts the beauty of diversity in Indonesia, so it fascinates anyone who sees it.

Photo: One example of the Sido Asih batik motif (Kompas.com/Wisnubrata)

Sido Asih Motif

Another motif is Sido Asih. As a type of batik motif often used in traditional Javanese weddings, the Sido Asih batik motif symbolizes a human life full of love. Using the Sido Asih motif at a wedding can create a home life full of love.

Mega Mendung Motif

Mega Mendung is a batik motif originating from Cirebon, West Java. The appeal of Mega Mendung batik lies in its simple motif, but it still gives a luxurious impression to anyone who uses it.

Identical to a cloud-like motif, Mega Mendung has a profound philosophy. According to belief, the cloud motif (when the sky is cloudy) is expected to make anyone who uses it stay cool, calm, patient, and able to control anger well.

Sidomukti Motif

The name "Sidomukti" is taken from two Javanese words, namely "sido" which means to be or become, and "mukti" which means happiness or sufficiency. The Sidomukti motif is interpreted as hoping its users will get happiness and goodness.

Many Sidomukti batik motifs are sold in the market, including the "Sidomukti Kupu-kupu" batik. It is said that the distinctive "kupu-kupu" (butterfly) ornament on each batik cloth symbolizes perfection and teaches people to remain patient through a sometimes painful process to achieve happiness in life.

Sido Luhur Motif

Sido Luhur motif batik also contains a profound philosophy. Derived from the word "luhur" which means great and honorable, it is hoped that anyone who uses Sido Luhur batik can become a role model and get honor in life. Interestingly, Sido Luhur batik is often used during "mitoni" ceremonies (traditional ceremonies when entering the 7th month of pregnancy). The philosophy is that using Sido Luhur batik can bring happiness.

Pring Sedapur Motif

Although rarely heard of, Pring Sedapur is a batik motif known to be unique and beautiful. The reason is that this typical East Javanese batik motif combines the patterns of bamboo trees with natural elements. By making the bamboo plant the main object, the Pring Sedapur batik motif symbolizes unity and strength. In other words, this batik motif teaches people to live together and get along with each other.

So, what batik motifs do you have in your wardrobes, Sobat Parekraf?

Cover: The beauty of the parang batik motif waves in the ocean (Shutterstock/Aufa Fahmi Furqon)