Explore Malaysian Textile Heritage: IKAT 2.0 in Penang

Immerse in Batik splendour
By: Iffah Salleh
April 26, 2024

Penang, known for its rich cultural tapestry, is set to host a celebration of Malaysian textile heritage with the arrival of IKAT 2.0: Penang Edition on April 27th and 28th, 2024, at The Loft 29. 

Curated with the Northern region’s audience in mind, IKAT 2.0 promises an enchanting experience titled “Tapestry of Tradition”, dedicated to the captivating narratives of Malaysian East Coast Batik.

Spearheaded by the creative studio EDT and presented by Yayasan Hasanah, IKAT (short for Immersive Knowledge and Textile) aims to reignite public engagement and deepen Malaysians’ appreciation for heritage textiles, motifs, techniques, and creation processes. 

This initiative is made possible through immersive experiences, technology, and collaborations with artisans, new media artists, educational institutions, and subject matter experts.

The Essence of IKAT 2.0

At the heart of IKAT 2.0: Penang Edition lies a dynamic pop-up textile experiential hub, offering a curated selection of engaging experiences over two days:

  • Immersive Pavilion
    Step into a 480 sq. ft gallery featuring five narrations — Earth, Water, Fire, Metal, and Wood,offering a mesmerising journey through the craftsmanship and cultural expressions of Malaysian Batik, passed down through generations.
  • Textile Showcase
    Experience a first-hand experience at the textile exhibition, where the timeless elegance, creativity, and artistry of Batik from the East Coast of Malaysia await exploration. Discover meticulously curated booths showcasing essential components of Batik creation, including stamping, natural dye, and Batik drawing.
  • Live Demonstration and Workshops
    Engage with esteemed artisans like Md Ghani bin Mat, Padil Osman, and Nawwal binti Abdul Kadir, as they unveil the intricate processes of Batik creation, painting, and natural dyeing. Participate in workshops to experience the ancient secrets and modern innovations of Batik firsthand.
  • Talk Sessions
    Join engaging discussions led by experts Azzaha Ibrahim and Nawwal binti Abdul Kadir, sharing insights into motifs and natural dye techniques, enriching your understanding of Malaysian textile heritage.
  • Fashion Showcase
    Witness a showcase of upcycled and innovative collections by fashion students from Limkokwing University’s Faculty of Creative Arts and Lifestyle, curated by Dato Tiffanee Marie Lim, exploring the fusion of tradition and modernity in Batik-inspired designs.

Admission to the IKAT 2.0: Tapestry of Tradition pop-up textile experiential hub is free! For more information and updates, follow them on Instagram @IKATMalaysia. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Malaysian Batik and its cultural heritage.

VenueThe Loft 29,57, Love Ln, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
Date/TimeApril 27th and 28th, 2024.10:30am to 10:30pm
WebsiteIKAT Malaysia’s website

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