Community Outreach

Tracing Stories in Wax and Colour: A Day of Batik at Karenina Agung Resort

· September 23, 2026 · 2 min read
Mahasiswa pertukaran asal Jerman Agung Putra University (APU) mengikuti workshop membatik di Karenina Agung Resort Semarang

A piece of white fabric gradually became a personal work of art at Karenina Agung Resort in Semarang on September 19, 2026. Three German exchange students joined TOTE-ALLY BATIK ART, a hands-on batik workshop facilitated by the International Office of Agung Putra University (APU).

Guided by student buddies and batik instructor Mr. M. Audi Dhiyaurrahman, participants learned that batik brings together technique, patience, colour, and personal expression. They followed the process from the first design to the final reveal and produced their own decorated fabric tote bags.

Understanding Batik Before Creating It

The day opened with a welcome session led by Sefi and Ms. Salindri. Student buddies Irul and Taqy then joined Mr. Audi in introducing the history and philosophy of batik, its basic techniques, and the tools used in the traditional process.

Before beginning the practical session, participants explored the cultural meaning of the craft so that they could understand batik as part of Indonesia's heritage as well as a creative technique.

“Before making batik, it is important for the participants to understand the process and meaning behind the craft, so they can appreciate what they are creating,” said Mr. Audi.

The first practical stage was membatik. Under Mr. Audi's guidance, participants carefully developed patterns on the fabric and learned to work with the traditional tools.

From Wax to Colour

After a midday break, participants moved to the colouring stage. Using Remasol dyes and waterglass as part of the process, they experimented with colour and saw how their earlier work shaped the composition of each piece.

“I liked seeing my design change after adding the colours. It felt different from just drawing because there were several steps to get the final result,” said Cara.

The workshop continued with the wax-removal stage, in which the fabric was treated with hot water. As the wax came away, the protected areas and final patterns became visible.

“The most exciting part was seeing what the batik looked like afterwards. You finally see the result of all the steps you did before,” said Melanie.

The finished tote bags reflected each participant's choices and provided a tangible reminder of a day spent learning through Indonesian cultural practice.

Written by ANM, APU International Office, Agung Putra University.

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