Afternoon Highlight (09/12/11/203/460) Gathering of batik enthusiasts

Gathering of batik enthusiasts

ENTREPRENEURS, batik artists and those interested in learning the latest batik-making techniques should head to the Kuala Lumpur International Batik Convention and Exhibition 2011 (KLIB 2011) that is being held from today until Sunday.
The event, organised by Yayasan Budi Penyayang Malaysia (Penyayang) with the cooperation of the Tourism Ministry. will take place at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Among the goals of the event is to develop an international network of batik enthusiasts and foster closer ties among batik-producing countries. The latest techniques, technology and marketing strategies for the batik crafts and industry, as well as it future, will be discussed at the convention.
Also, 19 batik experts from around the world, including policy-makers in the handicraft industry and textile producers, will attend the convention.
The speakers include Miyoko Kawahito (Japan), Joan Sung (Korea), Susan McLean (Australia) and Edric Ong from Malaysia.
Penyayang chief executive officer Datuk Leela Mohd Ali said undergraduates who are keen in learning more about the batik industry should attend the convention.
"There are new types of wax, and environmental-friendly dyes, for example," said Leela.
There will also be a batik handicraft corner exhibiting prototypes of items comprising batik motifs.
Leela also welcomed business entrepreneurs to visit the exhibition to get ideas.
"We will be displaying all the prototypes with batik motifs. Those interested to venture into the craft business will benefit from the exhibition. We feel some of the items exhibited have potential to be great souvenirs," she said.
Batik makers from Kelantan and Terengganu will also be showcasing their batik prints.
There are over 100 booths at the exhibition. The event will also have fashion shows by Persatuan Pembatek Melayu Pantai Timur, Galeri Seri Endon, Gahara Galore Sdn Bhd and Persatuan Pengusaha-Pengusaha Batik Negri Terengganu, among others. Admission is free.
For more information, call 03-8946 0222, or email to yabpm@tm.net.my. For more information the exhibition, call 03-8024 6500, email to info@expomal.com, or visit www.klib.com.my

Source : New Straits Times
Date : 9 December 2011
Afternoon Highlight (09/12/11/203/460)