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The term ‘batik' was derived from the original word ‘ambatik' that refers to a piece of cloth with little dots. Decades ago, in order to produce batik, workers must apply the traditional manual wax-resist colouring technique. But with rapid technology development in textile industry, today workers can transfer various batik patterns on specific cloth without using wax-resist dyeing technique. 

The suffix ‘tik' refers to dots/patterns. Some argued that the term ‘batik' actually or i ginates from a Javanese word ‘tritik' which refers to the process of dyeing and transferring particular patterns on cloth.

In 2001, Director-General of UNESCO introduced the proclamation of masterpieces of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity to preserve a country's cultural heritage. The unique Indonesian Batik is now recognized as the country's cultural heritage by UNESCO under the proclamation.

While you may find batik available in several other countries most commonly in Malaysia , Japan , China , India , Singapore and Nigeria , batik produced in Indonesia is distinctive and only available within the country. Meanwhile, you can easily distinguished Malaysian batik that often comes with flowers and plants design.

There are wide array of batik designs but the most popular are Kawung, Nitik, Ceplok and Parang. Kawung is one of the oldest batik designs since thirteenth century. Years ago, the pattern is catered for royal court of the Sultan of Jogjakarta only. Patterns with various geometric designs from circles, stars, squares or triangles are known as Ceplok while Parang is another famous old design used solely by royal courts of Central Java years ago. 

With shopping malls in the city selling batik at special price discounts, it is well-liked by a number of youngsters today. Modern batik that comes with more patterns including leaves and birds capture the attention of not only local ladies but also foreign tourists.

From time to time, fashion show held within the country has often used Batik as the theme of the night. For example, ‘Batik & Cuisine: A Heritage of Indonesia' held in April 2008 displays various modern batik designed by talented Indonesian designer Adjie Notonegoro.

While the popularity of other fashion accessories and clothes are gaining popularity among the teenagers namely jeans and blouse, batik remains as one of the most desired piece of cloth for every household in the country. Since batik is often considered suitable for both office and formal wear, batik is one of the top choices among Muslim women.