Simplisius Leandro Okhotan, a student of Information System study program of President University batch 2018 was crowned as the Putra Batik Karawang 2019 (10/26). The event “Putra Putri Batik Karawang” was held by Paguyuban Mojang Jajaka Karawang through Ikatan Putra Putri Batik Karawang in collaboration with Karawang Tourism and Culture Office. The event was conducted to increase the young generation’s awareness and appreciation of the beauty of Batik in Karawang.
Leandro explained that he and the other Batik Ambassadors have several work plans in the future that will be focusing on introducing and fostering a sense of love and appreciation towards Batik as a cultural heritage that must be preserved.
For Leandro, joining this competition is one of the ways to contribute to preserving Indonesian culture. “Hopefully by being Putra Batik Karawang, I can provide a better understanding of the importance to preserve Batik and inspire the young generation to do so. Because I personally think that it is important to preserve Batik as it is a unique and invincible culture that makes Indonesia stand out and distinguishes us from other countries,” said Leandro.
The event went for three weeks. It was started with applicant registration, first phase selection with a written test, psychological test, and talent show, nineteen days quarantine, talent & fashion show, repetitive deep interview, and grand final night.
Successfully beat the other 64 contestants, Leandro hopes that Karawang batik can exist even more and become the people’s identity. “I am sure you will be proud to have Batik if you know the process of making Batik itself. Every type of Batik has its own uniqueness and characteristics in each stroke, so never be ashamed to wear Batik,” added Leandro.