Women in Cultural Preservation through Batik Activities

Riau - Bintan, Campus Based on Revelation and Terrace of Knowledge — Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of Sultan Abdurrahman State Islamic College (STAIN) of Riau Islands also took part in an activity entitled "Making Batik with GenBI STAIN Kepri" which carried the theme Preserving Culture, Inspiring Generations. This event was held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Razali Jaya Auditorium, STAIN Kepri Campus, attended by students of the New Generation of Indonesia (GenBI) from STAIN Kepri and Raja Ali Haji Maritime University (UMRAH).

The Head of DWP STAIN Kepri, Ns. Nurhidayu, S.Kep., was present accompanying the Head of STAIN Kepri, Dr. Muhammad Faisal, M.Ag., together with Deputy Chairperson II of STAIN Kepri, Dr. Almahfuz, M.Si., and the Advisor of GenBI STAIN Kepri Commissariat, M. Azmi, M.E. On that occasion, Nurhidayu emphasized the importance of the role of women, especially in the university environment, to be actively involved in efforts to preserve national culture through educational activities such as batik making.

"Batik is not only a cultural heritage full of philosophical values, but also a symbol of perseverance, creativity, and cooperation. Through this activity, we learn how patience and perseverance can produce high-value works of art. This is in line with the role of women who have a strategic role in maintaining and passing on culture in the family and community," said Ns. Nurhidayu.

She also added that DWP STAIN Kepri greatly appreciates the GenBI initiative which not only focuses on academic development, but is also active in activities that strengthen local cultural identity. According to her, batik making is not just a creative process, but also a means of self-reflection to understand the values of local wisdom that have been passed down from generation to generation.

This activity was filled with various series of events, including a direct batik practice session. Participants were taught basic batik techniques starting from making patterns, using canting, to the coloring process. The enthusiasm of the students was clearly seen from their active participation in exploring various batik motifs, especially those inspired by the Malay culture of the Riau Islands.

The GenBI Advisor of STAIN Kepri, M. Azmi, M.E., emphasized that this activity not only aims to preserve culture, but also encourages students to develop creativity as part of the soft skills needed in the modern era.

At the end of the event, Ns. Nurhidayu hopes that similar activities can continue to be developed in the future, both on campus and in the wider community.

"Preserving culture is not only about maintaining tradition, but also how we inspire the younger generation to love and appreciate ancestral heritage. Hopefully this spirit will become part of the character of STAIN Kepri students who are globally competitive but still deeply rooted in the nation's culture," she concluded.

This activity is expected to be an initial step that has a positive impact, not only in preserving batik culture but also as a means of strengthening the values of togetherness, creativity, and love for the cultural heritage of the archipelago among the younger generation.

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