InfoSAWIT, SOLO — Batik is more than just a piece of intricately patterned fabric—it is now a symbol of transformation toward a more sustainable future. This is the message brought forward by the Forum for the Development of Kampoeng Batik Laweyan (FPKBL), which is showcasing batik sawit—batik made with palm oil-based wax—in a special exhibition at the departure lounge of Adi Sumarmo Airport in Solo.

In collaboration with Batik Tjap Tiga Negri, one of Laweyan’s legendary batik artisans, FPKBL introduces an environmentally friendly batik wax technique that replaces traditional fossil-based paraffin with stearin derived from sustainably sourced palm oil. The stearin is RSPO-certified, making the production process more eco-conscious without compromising the art’s traditional aesthetics and cultural value.

“The response from travelers has been amazing. Many are surprised to learn that batik wax can be made from palm oil. It’s a highly effective platform for education,” said Muchammad Nugroho, owner of Batik Tjap Tiga Negri, in a statement to InfoSAWIT on Thursday (July 31, 2025). He added that showcasing batik sawit in a public space like an airport opens up meaningful conversations about innovation in cultural preservation.

More than just a product promotion, this exhibition is part of a broader movement to raise collective awareness of Indonesian batik’s potential to evolve ecologically. The initiative underlines that cultural heritage like batik can not only be preserved but also innovated sustainably.

For travelers passing through Adi Sumarmo Airport, the exhibition offers a cultural pause with a powerful environmental message. Visit the FPKBL – Batik Tjap Tiga Negri booth and witness how tradition meets innovation, keeping Indonesian batik relevant, responsible, and proudly present on the global stage. (T2)