CJMY
The highly anticipated IKAT 2.0: Echoes of Colours is set to make its final stop in Johor Bahru from October 17 – 20, 2024, at Kompleks Warisan Sultan Abu Bakar.
This unique platform celebrates the vibrant and intricate history of Malaysia’s textile heritage.
Through IKAT 2.0, Johorians will have the rare chance to explore the Peranakan culture, particularly the Baba Nyonya, Chetti Peranakan, and Jawi Peranakan communities, whose traditions continue to enrich Malaysia’s multi-cultural identity.
The event, spearheaded by creative technology studio EDT and presented by Yayasan Hasanah, promises to immerse visitors in a one-of-a-kind textile experience.
From interactive galleries to hands-on workshops with local artisans, IKAT 2.0 serves as a reminder of the cultural tapestry that forms the heart of Malaysia’s history.
A vibrant celebration of Peranakan culture
At its core, IKAT 2.0 seeks to preserve and showcase Malaysia’s rich textile heritage.
The immersive pavilion, spanning 480 square feet, blends tradition with modernity using interactive tiles, motifs, and shifting colours.
Visitors will be drawn into the symbolic world of Peranakan culture, specifically focusing on the Baba Nyonya, Chetti Peranakan, and Jawi Peranakan communities.
While the Baba Nyonya are widely known as descendants of Chinese immigrants, the Chetti and Jawi Peranakan are often underrepresented.
The Chetti Peranakan community descends from Indian traders who married local women, resulting in a unique fusion of Hindu and Malay customs.
On the other hand, the Jawi Peranakan represents Indian Muslim traders, whose distinct Islamic heritage shaped their identity.
This diversity, reflected in the art and textiles on display, offers a rare glimpse into these communities’ cultural contributions.
One of the key attractions is the Textile Showcase, which highlights the beauty and craftsmanship of Peranakan attire such as Batik, Songket, beading, and embroidery.
Visitors can experience first-hand the artistry that has been passed down through generations.
IKAT 2.0: Workshops, discussions, and a modern twist
What truly sets IKAT 2.0 apart is its focus on interactive and immersive experiences.
The event will host a range of hands-on workshops led by renowned artisans, offering the public the opportunity to learn traditional techniques directly from the experts.
Baba Kenny Loh, a respected figure in Nyonya beading, will be among the artisans sharing their craft.
Participants can also explore embroidery with Joshua D. Louis or try their hand at Batik painting with Tipah Jusoh.
For those interested in jewellery, IKAT 2.0 has partnered with the HARTA Heritage Jewellery Museum to offer a virtual reality (VR) experience, showcasing their exquisite collection.
This collaboration demonstrates how modern technology can preserve and promote Malaysia’s heritage in a contemporary and engaging way.
In addition to the workshops, IKAT 2.0 features engaging talk sessions with prominent figures from the Peranakan community.
Baba Cedric Tan, a sixth-generation Malaccan Baba and cultural advocate, will share his journey of championing the inclusion of the Baju Kebaya in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The final leg of IKAT 2.0 in Johor Bahru marks the conclusion of a nationwide tour that began in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year.
As its name suggests, IKAT (short for Immersive Knowledge and Textile) aims to deepen public engagement with heritage textiles through innovative, technology-driven experiences.
Award-winning designer Baba Kenny Loh, who curated IKAT 2.0: Echoes of Colours, hopes that visitors leave with a newfound appreciation for Peranakan culture.
Loh believes this event serves as a bridge between past and present, showcasing how different cultural identities can coexist and thrive.
Presented by Yayasan Hasanah, IKAT 2.0 also relies on the support of organisations such as Yayasan Warisan Johor, Kenny Loh Couture, and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.
This collaboration underscores the importance of preserving Malaysia’s diverse heritage while embracing modern techniques.
Don’t miss out on this final opportunity to experience IKAT 2.0 from 10:30 am to 10:30 pm at Kompleks Warisan Sultan Abu Bakar. Visit https://ikatmalaysia.com/ for more information or follow IKAT Malaysia on Instagram.
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