KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has expressed support for Universiti Malaysia Sarawak’s (UNIMAS) efforts to develop Sarawak-themed batik designs that showcase the state’s unique heritage.
Receiving a courtesy visit from the Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts at his official residence in Petra Jaya on Monday, Wan Junaidi shared his insights on the history of Sarawak, particularly the traditional textile arts of its diverse ethnic communities.
He also stressed the importance of safeguarding design copyrights to prevent external exploitation.
The delegation, led by Faculty Dean Dr Ringah Kanyan (Dr Louis), comprised textile and fashion lecturers Dr Asrul Asshadi Mohamad Morni, Dr Marzie Hatef Jalil and Puteri Ariana Mohd Puat, as well as UNIMAS Corporate Director Zukkarnaen Ali.
The project aims to create batik designs inspired by Sarawak’s flora, fauna, architecture and ethnic heritage, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations to reflect the state’s multicultural identity.
Wan Junaidi’s wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi highlighted the role of batik and weaving in customs and cultural diplomacy.
UNIMAS said it will conduct further research into suitable motifs, techniques and materials, adding that the input from Wan Junaidi and Fauziah will be a key reference in strengthening the project.
