Waruga
North Sulawesi Province - Indonesia
Meanings:
Minahasa batik motifs are adopted from Waruga. Waruga refers to the grave of Minahasa ancestors, which is made of stone consisting of different layers. The triangle shape of the upper waruga contained reliefs called Tonaas. There are two kinds of Tonaas, namely ‘Tonaas ang Kayobaan’ which represents a supreme human being and the ‘Tuama Loor’, which is a representation of masculinity.
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 North Sulawesi
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 North Sulawesi Province
North Sulawesi Province is one of the 10 Indonesian’s priority tourist destinations. Many international-scale events such as WOC (World Ocean Conference), Sail Bunaken, Tomohon Flowers Festival are held in this region. The local government organizes interesting annual cultural festivals highlighting traditional ceremonies and cultural heritage such as Figura Festival and Tapikong.
Batik Villages in North Sulawesi Province
Batik villages are the region where the Batik producers mostly reside and open their Batik workshops, as well as display their Batik products. You could buy the Batik textiles from the artisans and participate in the making process of Batik on the site.
Other Motifs in North Sulawesi
Manguni Minahasa
Manguni is identified as the symbol of the Minahasa people. Manguni is known as a
Tari Kabasaran
the Kabasaran dance is a sacred dance performed in the
Pinawetengan
The Pinawetengan Batik pattern was taken from a prehistoric inscription in