Lasem, a city in Rembang district, Central Java, is famous for its batik. Not only is it beautiful, but each piece of batik cloth has a story to tell.
Lasem is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Chinese, Javanese, and Dutch people. That diversity has impacted the batik motifs produced there, with more than 40 batik houses producing unique designs.
It’s for that reason that APR partnered with Maranatha Christian University, the Ministry of Education and the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education to introduce more sustainable practices, including the use of APR‘s biodegradable viscose rayon.
APR began training on environmentally friendly textiles for batik in 2022 for 40 batik makers. The batik makers then attempted to print motifs such as Peony, Lung-lungan, and Ringgit Mountain on APR-sponsored white viscose rayon cloth, using natural indigofera dye. The end result is a high-quality batik fabric with twists and dots in an elegant blue color. It is certain that whoever wears it will draw the attention and admiration of those who see it.
To a higher level
The region’s traditional batik plays an important role in the local economy, and encouraging its growth ties in with our commitment to Inclusive Prosperity as part of our APR2030 strategy.
“This genuine collaboration between the government, academics, Lasem batik craftsmen, and us demonstrates APR’s genuine commitment to empowering traditional cloth in Indonesia, which is also in line with our passion to promote our APR2030 commitment as well as sustainable fashion in Indonesia,” said APR’s Director Basrie Kamba.
“Through this collaboration, we are also encouraging economic recovery for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises after a two-year hiatus.”
Lasem batik’s popularity continues to grow, and it has gained exposure at recent fashion shows including the Indonesia International Modest Fashion Festival in Jakarta, where collections made using APR’s viscose rayon were proudly displayed.
Viscose rayon from APR is made from raw materials grown in sustainably managed plantations, is suitable for all skin types, and is easily biodegradable.
About Asia Pacific Rayon:
Asia Pacific Rayon is the first integrated viscose rayon producer in Asia, located in Pangkalan Kerinci, Riau. APR is committed to becoming a leading viscose rayon producer with the principles of sustainability, transparency and operational excellence, and serving the interests of the community, country and climate, while providing value to customers. APR is part of the RGE (Royal Golden Eagle) group of resource-based manufacturing companies. The APR Sustainability Policy, updated in August 2022, includes additional commitments on pulp sourcing and clean manufacturing.
Media Contact:
Djarot Handoko
Head of Corporate Communications, Asia Pacific Rayon
Djarot_Handoko@aprilasia.com
