Enviro News Asia, Washington, D.C. – Indonesia once again showcased its rich cultural heritage on the international stage through the celebration of National Batik Day, held at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., from September 30 to October 2, 2025. The event, organized in collaboration between the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Washington, D.C. and the World Bank, highlighted Indonesia’s traditions deeply rooted in art, philosophy, and national identity.
This was the second edition of Batik Day at the World Bank, following its successful debut in 2023. This year’s program presented a wide range of Indonesian cultural expressions, from batik, music, dance, and cuisine to traditional handicrafts. Visitors enjoyed gamelan, angklung, and kolintang performances by the Indonesian diaspora in the DMV area (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia), and participated in a batik workshop where they experienced firsthand the intricate process of creating batik using wax and dye.
A diverse display of batik motifs was presented along with historical and philosophical narratives, underscoring that batik is far more than fabric—it is a living cultural heritage rich with meaning. Authentic Indonesian dishes prepared by Artha Rini Restaurant and Dua Coffee DC delighted guests, while Indonesian MSMEs offered handicrafts that added a touch of creativity from the homeland.
In his remarks, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the United States emphasized the significance of National Batik Day, celebrated annually on October 2 since UNESCO recognized batik in 2009 as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
“Batik is more than just cloth. It is a living art form born from centuries of cultural exchange, sustaining the livelihoods of millions, and symbolizing Indonesia’s enduring identity,” he stated.
Beyond Washington, Indonesian batik has earned recognition and preservation in prominent U.S. cultural institutions. The George Washington University Textile Museum houses a permanent batik collection, while the Yale University Art Gallery is currently presenting “Nusantara: Six Centuries of Indonesian Textiles” through January 2026. Collections of Indonesian textiles can also be found at The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian Institution, affirming batik’s position as a treasured global heritage.
The celebration was made possible with the support of the Office of the Executive Director for the Southeast Asia Voting Group at the World Bank, the Indonesia Staff Association, as well as volunteers and the Indonesian diaspora community. The warmth of Nusantara culture resonated at the heart of Washington, reaffirming Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding batik as a world heritage while strengthening its cultural identity on the global stage. (*)
