Home / Batik Regions - Eastern Indonesia - Maluku / Pala Salawaku
Pala Salawaku
Maluku Province - Indonesia
Meanings:
This motif illustrates the unique traditional weapons of the Maluku region, called Salawaku. Salawaku dagger is used in many local social settings, as it represents the identity of Maluku communities such as in traditional dances, rituals, and textile patterns. While the word ‘Pala’ refers to nutmegs as one of Maluku’s main commodities.
Note: All contents and batik images are protected by Indonesian cultural property law. This documentation is intended for educational purposes and to facilitate the preservation of Batik UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage 2009. Any use of published materials is allowed only with reference to this website as the original source of publication.
How to preserve Batik
Philosophical Meanings of Batik
Learn and identify the meaning of the motifs from each region. Are you searching for a meaningful gift for your loved ones? Surprise them with a merry little Batik!
Authentic Batik
Buy the authentic handwritten Batik textiles to add to your prestigious collection. Such support will enhance the well-being of Batik artisans and preserve the living heritage.
Batik Community
If you want to meet the Batik artisans, we encourage you to visit and support Batik workshops in Indonesia. You may discover the local tourism that suits your preference!
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009
Batik Production Process in Maluku
Batik production can take 1 month up to 2 years of working time depending on the purposes of the textile creation and the colour complexity. The Batik handwriting textile is generally made with 8 design steps, ranging from wax patterning to colouring process. The artists use Canting, as a tool to put hot melted wax on the cloth.
Batik Regions
Overview of Maluku Province
Maluku has 117 distinct dialects and languages. It is also famous for its cultural linedance, called Poco-poco. It is a type of linedance that has been popular since the 2000s. This dance was originally known as a gymnastic movement among the military environment until later it is developed into a flashmob dance that is loved by all Indonesian people. This dance accompaniment song is also titled “Poco-Poco” and was composed by an Ambon musician named Arie Sapulette.
Batik Production Villages in Maluku Province
Batik villages are the region where the textile heritage producers mostly reside and open their workshops, as well as display their textile products. You could buy the textiles from the artisans and participate in the making process of Batik on the site.
Other Motifs in Maluku
Pattimura
Pattimura is the name of an Indonesian hero who fought against colonialism in
Tifa Totobuang
The batik motifs illustrate Maluku’s traditional music instrument called
Pantai Ambon
Ambon city batik depicts the natural wealth and marine life of