PRIME Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob has declared December 3 as the annual Malaysia Batik Day.

In a special address, which was broadcast via RTM’s TV1 and social media tonight, he said the government hopes the declaration will encourage all citizens, including the private sector and the multiracial community, to wear the Malaysian batik.

He said the move is in line with the Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian Family) concept, whereby the people of all races unite in donning the uniqueness and beauty of local batik.

“I believe that the declaration of Malaysia Batik Day can also be the catalyst to strengthen the local batik craft industry and the country’s batik production chain,” he said.

Ismail said the selection of the date, which has been agreed upon by the cabinet on November 26, is a sign of appreciation for the contribution, support and interest in batik craft shown by Endon Mahmood, the late wife of fifth prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Ismail said on December 3, 2003, Endon initiated the Malaysian Batik-Crafted for the World movement to bring local batik to the international stage.

The prime minister also congratulated the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac) for its hard work in realising the historic day.

“I am delighted to witness Motac’s effort through Kraftangan Malaysia in developing the country’s batik craft industry, making it sustainable and competitive in facing the global economic challenges,” he said.

Ismail said the government has also set Thursday as “wear Malaysian batik day” for all civil servants and the entire Keluarga Malaysia, including in Parliament. – Bernama, December 1, 2021.