WHEN I Dewa Bagus Putu Prima Pratama, better known simply as Prima, stepped into Kuching’s tattoo expo for the first time, he wasn’t just there to showcase his craft.
The Balinese tattoo artist, who has been in the industry for 15 years and representing Inkdonesia Movement, brought along two younger talents – Mangdut and Dede, from Bali to experience the international stage.
For Prima, Kuching was a long-awaited stop. Although he had travelled to tattoo conventions in Miri, Sabah, Melaka, across Southeast Asia and even in Australia, this was his first time in Sarawak’s capital.
“I’ve been to many tattoo expos, but this is the first time for me and these young, talented artists to be in Kuching.
“It’s important they get this experience, to see how other artists work and to introduce themselves to the wider community,” he told Sarawak Tribune at the Kuching International Tattoo Expo 2025 held at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) headquarters recently.
For the 38-year-old, tattoos are no longer seen through the old lens of stigma. To him, they are art, fashion, and a way for the next generation to carry tradition into the future.
“People used to have a perception that tattoos were for bad people. But no – if the person is positive, the tattoo is positive. It’s just like a drawing, but on your skin. Everyone can appreciate it,” he said.
The owner of Ma Tattoo Bali has also noticed a generational shift in how young people approach body art.
“I have many friends from Kuching and Miri who come from Sarawak’s ethnic groups. They always introduce their cultural patterns through tattoos.
“Sometimes they mix it with modern styles, which makes it fresh. So younger tattoo fans might say, “I want this, but with a modern touch. That’s good. It’s positive for the community here in Kuching,” he said.
Despite his years of experience, Prima still views tattooing as a lifelong learning journey.
While the tools have evolved – wireless machines today are quieter and more comfortable for clients – the traditions remain deeply respected.
Hand-tapped tattoos, he observed, are still sought after worldwide, from Indonesia to Sarawak and even Europe.
“Everyone wants to try hand tap. It’s authentic from the culture. That’s why people are always drawn to it, even if the design is simple,” he said.
At the tattoo expo in Kuching, he said it was more than an event but a reminder of why he continues to ink stories on skin, travel and connect.
“I like to learn new things everywhere I go. During my travels, I get to discover something new – whether it’s a tradition, a design or simply meeting friends and new people,” he said.
