An Analysis of Javanese Influences on Malaysian Motifs in Batik Sarong Design

Abstract

This study examines the influences of the Javanese batik sarong design as embedded in design Malaysian motifs batik sarongs. Several batik sarongs samples were photographed in order to trace and categorize the range of design motifs, which were mostly gathered from museums, galleries, personal collections and batik makers in Malaysia. These were investigated with regard to the layout of batik sarongs and design motifs that show different features and influences. Foremost, through these findings, batik design was derived from Javanese traditional batik sarong design, and has evolved in Malaysia since batik technique for textile decoration was assimilated into Malay clothing culture. The designs of Malay traditional batik sarong show enhancement and continuity Javanese influences in their pattern organization. However, through an analysis and categorization of samples, it can be established that the design characteristics of batik sarongs in Malaysia have been strongly innovation and have contributed the variety and distinctiveness of Malaysian batik sarongs design motifs.