Exploring Batik Cempaka: Embracing Local Wisdom in Majapahit Village Mojokerto

TIMESINDONESIA, MOJOKERTO – Nestled in Majapahit Village, Bejijong District, Mojokerto Regency, is a village that exudes the essence of ancient Majapahit. The Majapahit House stands as a contemporary ancient building that attracts tourists. Yet this cit still has a hidden cultural gem, Batik Cempaka.

Recognized as a National Cultural Heritage Site (KCBN) and a National Tourism Strategic Area (KSPN), this village presents a blend of art, culture, history, nature, and creative industries as an integral part of Majapahit Village.

The village boasts various archaeological sites, including Brahu Temple, Gentong Temple, Petilasan Siti Inggil (Raden Wijaya's Tomb), and Maha Vihara Mojopahit. The creative industry sector in Bejijong Village seems to be continuously innovating, from bronze casting and batik to culinary endeavors. Over time, batik from Majapahit Village has gained attention.

Batik Cempaka is owned by Ms. Mujiatin, a craftswoman who began her venture in 2012. She is the sole batik maker in Majapahit Village, Bejijong, Trowulan District, Mojokerto Regency. The name derived from the cempaka or chrysanthemum, known for its white crown and fragrant scent.

"In every endeavor, the message is to be guided by sincerity. We always focus on the positive side of running this business," explains Mujiatin about the philosophy behind her product.

Distinctive Features of Batik Cempaka

Batik Cempaka by Mujiatin has distinctive features. Firstly, it embraces the local wisdom of Majapahit. Secondly, it incorporates bright colors in more than three shades. The hallmark of Mujiatin's batik is the diverse color patterns, usually comprising more than three colors, resulting in vibrant and non-monotonous designs.

"There are motifs like the Majapahit sun, Majapahit gate, lotus motifs, mahogany fruit motifs, and others. But I have made very distinctive innovations with Majapahit Village, Bejijong," she says.

The Entrepreneurial Journey of Batik Cempaka

Mujiatin began her business as a batik maker, originally starting as a home seamstress. Her sewing skills were ingrained in her from a young age. After getting married and having a child, Mujiatin's husband, who also runs a bronze casting business, collaborated with the local government, yielding results.

"Eventually, in 2012, we requested training from the Trade and Industry Office to provide batik training in Trowulan District," she says.
Like a latent talent, Mujiatin's batik creations captured hearts. She delved deeper into the art of batik making. Moreover, her works consistently won awards in various competitions.

Batik Cempaka saw a turning point in 2014 when government orders surged, reaching up to 600 pieces. Consequently, Mujiatin curated her neighbors to join her business. As a result, 15 people became interested in becoming batik makers.

"Since 2014, our business has been organized, until the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2019. We faced difficulties in activities, and eventually started again from scratch. Now, there are only six of us left," she explains.

Products and Marketing of Batik Cempaka

Griya Batik Cempaka offers various products, including stamped batik, hand-drawn batik, Eco-Print, Shibori, tie-dye, and derivative products like headscarves, batik shoes, Eco-Print shoes, and more.

Mujiatin's hand-drawn batik can fulfill all kinds of requests, from collaborations with Eco-Print to Javanese script inscriptions and Majapahit motifs.

"Hand-drawn batik takes up to two weeks to complete, while stamped batik can produce up to 20 pieces in a day," she says.

Batik Cempaka's marketing extends beyond Mojokerto Regency, even reaching neighboring countries. It has participated in exhibitions in Malaysia, as well as in Jakarta, Surabaya, and other major cities.

"However, I focus on the local market because my batik highlights Majapahit's local wisdom," she says.

The home industry also collaborates with hospitality services in marketing its products. Hotels in Trawas proudly exhibit their products. For online marketing, they mainly utilizes WhatsApp and Instagram.

"During busy days, our revenue can reach 30 million rupiahs, but during slower periods, it's around 10-15 million rupiahs per month," she reveals.
Batik Cempaka products range from 175,000 to 2.5 million rupiahs, with prices adjusted according to demand.(*)

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