From Carvings to Batik A Cultural Transformation at Rumah Tuo Rantau Panjang

MERANGIN — Beneath the magical roof of Rumah Tuo Rantau Panjang, Merangin Regency, a new history is slowly being carved. Recently, this historic building has not only stood as a silent witness to the past, but has transformed into a boundless space of creativity for the local community. Uniquely, this new history is not carved into wood as the ancestors once did, but is being immortalized on stretches of white cloth.

This batik training activity is a remarkable initiative born from a strategic collaboration between the Management Body of Merangin Jambi UNESCO Global Geopark (MJUGGp) and Sanggar Batin Penghulu.

More Than Just Canting Technique

By bringing in an expert instructor, Ibu Rohmatul Hidayah from Pondok Pesantren Al-Aziziah Muara Siau, the local community was taught batik-making techniques from scratch. However, this training is far greater than simply learning to hold a canting and apply wax.

There is a great and noble mission behind this activity: transferring the spirit, philosophy, and beauty of Rumah Tuo's distinctive carvings into batik motifs of both artistic and high economic value. Through this step, the visual identity of Rantau Panjang can be worn, introduced, and marketed to the wider world.

Cross-Generational Synergy

The Vice Regent of Merangin, Bapak Drs. H. Abdul Khafidh, M.M., who was present in person to open the event, delivered a deeply meaningful message. In his remarks, he referred to this activity as a genuine "bridge of cultural transformation."

He admitted he was deeply moved to see the enthusiasm of participants spanning various generations. From the small, curious hands of children to the skilled fingers of adults, all sat together batik-making their cloth.

"Seeing children and adults united in safeguarding their ancestral heritage is real proof that cultural preservation efforts in Merangin are inclusive and alive within the community," said Bapak Abdul Khafidh.

A Crucial Requirement Toward UNESCO Recognition

This step of cultural transformation is not only beneficial in terms of art preservation, but also has a global impact. General Manager of Merangin Jambi Geopark, Dr. Agus, S.Sos., M.Hum., affirmed that empowerment such as this is a crucial requirement for UNESCO's feasibility assessment.

"By making the community the subject and main actor in preservation, we are not merely maintaining culture. More than that, we are integrating geological wealth, biodiversity, and cultural richness into real economic value that brings prosperity," Dr. Agus stated.

Now, through a piece of batik cloth, the community of Rantau Panjang proves that the heritage of the past does not have to stop at being a mere display, but can continue to breathe, adapt, and provide a livelihood for future generations.