Jokowi and Lee Carry Out Batik Diplomacy

Semarang, 15 Safar 1438/15 November 2016 (MINA) – President Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong carried out Batik diplomacy to further strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

The state leaders witnessed the process of Batik making in Wisma Perdamaian, Semarang, Central Java, on Monday, Antara News reported.

The activity was performed following a bilateral meeting between the president and his Singaporean counterpart.

In the friendly atmosphere, Jokowi took time to introduce Lee to Batik handicrafts.

He also invited Lee to try a hand at creating the handicrafts.

Meanwhile, First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo appeared to introduce Lees wife to the innovative handicraft as well.

Lee was repeatedly seen taking out his cellphone to capture the craftsmen and their activities.

Their enthusiasm prompted Jokowi, who was accompanied by Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo, to invite Lee and his wife to try creating a batik pattern on a fabric.

Despite being unfamiliar with the activity, both the PM and his wife looked steady in holding the canting, a pen-like equipment used in Batik making.

They looked very enthusiastic while using their canting to create their patterns, while Jokowi and the First Lady were busy watching them.

Close, friendly ties between the two countries were very much apparent that afternoon.

For almost 50 years, both countries have maintained diplomatic bilateral relationship, and the rare moment shared by Widodo and Lee showed the close and friendly ties between Indonesia and Singapore.

It is hoped that the Batik diplomacy and friendliness exuded by both the state leaders would enhance the ever-advancing relationship between the two countries. (T/R07/R01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)