Saarani (centre) presenting a mock cheque as a loan to Alif Aizat Lope Azmee (second right) for his business. — Bernama
THE traditional art of crafting batik motifs typically involves using wax for design creation.
However, Batik Lenggong stands out for its unique approach – utilising clay to form the background of its motifs.
What makes this process even more interesting is that it is carried out by four individuals with disabilities from the Lenggong Community Rehabilitation Centre (PPDK), comprising three women and a man.
Nor Aizah Abdul Hamid, a PPDK Lenggong staff, explained to Bernama that Batik Lenggong was made by placing batik stencils on fabric and pressing clay onto them with a roller.
“We have proudly exhibited our creations at various craft exhibitions and festivals nationwide, achieving sales of up to RM20,000,” she said.
“Additionally, we have attracted customers from Sarawak who buy Batik Lenggong through online platforms.
“It’s noteworthy that Batik Lenggong has even been worn by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail on several events,” said Nor Aizah during the One District One Industry (SDSI) Exhibition for the Northern Region at Stadium Indera Mulia in Ipoh, Perak.
Saarani (second, left) stepping in to help push sales during the opening ceremony.
Nor Aizah said Batik Lenggong had clinched the Craft Community Award and a RM10,000 prize at the recent National Craft Day 2024 held at the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex.
Batik Lenggong could cost from RM5 (for accessories like hair ties) and up to RM1,600 for other items, depending on the type of fabric, she said.
The three-day SDSI Exhibition, organised by the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry in collaboration with the Perak government, was launched by Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The objective of the event was to promote products from SDSI entrepreneurs across Perak, Kedah, Penang and Perlis, while providing a platform for them to market the products.
The event with over 100 entrepreneurs showcased food, crafts, homestay options and health services.
The distribution of business financing worth RM9.06mil to 117 entrepreneurs took place at the event.
