TIMES SINGAPORE, JAKARTA – Batik, once known as formal attire for official events, has now transformed into a significant part of casual fashion, especially among the younger generation. Generation Z, or Gen Z, has revived this tarditional fabric in a fresh and modern way. No longer just a symbol of cultural pride, it is now considered a relevant and trendy fashion element.

Syarifah, a student at UIN Malang and a batik enthusiast, explained that the transformation of this tarditional fabric from formal fabric to casual fashion is thanks to innovations in design and styling.

"Nowadays, we can see them not only worn in formal events but also as part of everyday fashion, like t-shirts, jackets, or even sneakers," she said. According to Syarifah, batik has become more inclusive and closer to the daily lives of young people.

Design Innovation Capturing Gen Z's Attention

One of the factors making this fabric popular again among Gen Z is the innovation in designs that are more modern and adaptable. Young designers are no longer confined to classic motifs, instead combining contemporary elements to create more dynamic and diverse looks. This makes it more appealing to the younger generation.

Syarifah also mentioned that batik motifs are no longer limited to traditional designs like parang or kawung but now feature new motifs that resonate more with young people's tastes.

"Many designers are starting to incorporate modern motifs with a touch of pop culture, making it feel more connected to our lifestyle," she explained.

Batik as a Symbol of Identity and Pride

Gen Z also sees batik as a symbol of national identity to be proud of. Amid globalization, which brings in various fashion trends from abroad, this tarditional fabric serves as a marker of pride in Indonesia’s cultural heritage.

According to Syarifah, many young people now proudly wear batik, not only because of its aesthetic value but also due to its cultural significance.

"I feel that by wearing this fabric,  we are carrying the nation's identity into our daily lives. It's a form of personal pride, especially when we can mix batik with modern casual styles," Syarifah said.

For her, it is no longer just for the older generation but has become a bridge between the past and the present for young people.

Social Media's Role in Introducing Batik

It's undeniable that social media plays a huge role in spreading the trend of this tarditional fabric among Gen Z. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become spaces for influencers and young designers to showcase more casual and trendy tstyles.

Content such as outfit of the day (OOTD) posts that incorporate it with modern fashion is becoming increasingly popular and inspires many young people to try this tarditional fabric in their daily outfits.

"Through social media, we can easily see how it can be paired with other fashion items like jeans or sneakers. This makes batik feel less old-fashioned or formal and more fresh and relevant to our lifestyle," said Syarifah.

Social media also provides an opportunity for batik artisans and enthusiasts to expand their market, reaching young consumers in different regions.

Challenges in Preserving Batik Among Gen Z

Despite it’s growing popularity among Gen Z, challenges in preserving  it as a cultural heritage remain. According to Syarifah, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring that the cultural values embedded in this fabric continue to be respected and not lost amid innovation and modernization.

"We must continue learning and appreciating the process, from selecting the materials, and motifs, to the crafting techniques. It is not just about fashion; it’s about the stories and philosophies that need to be preserved," Syarifah emphasized.

She added that it's important to maintain a balance between innovation and preserving batik’s traditional values.

Batik: A Cultural Heritage That Continues to Evolve

In the hands of Gen Z, batik is finding a new form that is more relevant to modern times without losing its cultural roots. It is no longer just part of tradition but has become a medium of self-expression for the younger generation.

With modern touches and support from social media, batik is ready to face the challenges of the times and remain a symbol of national pride.

"I hope that batik will continue to evolve and become part of the identity of future generations. With continuous innovation, it will always find a place in the hearts of young Indonesians," concluded Syarifah.