For Tandadjaja, modernisation is not a threat to batik’s heritage but a necessity for its survival.
“The bigger risk isn’t evolution – it’s becoming irrelevant,” he said. “We want younger people to see batik not just as a tradition, but as something they genuinely choose as part of their lifestyle.”
That approach appears to be working. Alongside a growing number of younger customers, Batik Wolter is attracting clients from neighbouring countries such as Singapore and Malaysia who travel to Jakarta specifically to commission batik pieces.
Looking ahead, Tandadjaja hopes to expand Batik Wolter across Southeast Asia and beyond. His mission, however, remains simple: To ensure that batik tulis continues to thrive by making it current, approachable and relevant for future generations.
Batik Wolter is located at Maqna Residence Ruko 18-21, Business Park, Kebon Jeruk, RT1/RW5, North Meruya, Kembangan, West Jakarta City, Jakarta 11610, Indonesia.
