Mangrove ecotourism management requires sustainable efforts that not only focus on ecosystem preservation, but also on improving the welfare of local communities. One way to support this sustainability is to find additional sources of income for ecotourism managers. In this context, the development of a creative economy through batik products with distinctive mangrove ecosystem motifs can be a potential alternative.
On September 15, 2024, a batik training was held for tour guides and managers of the Cisiu Mangrove Educational Nature Tourism in Pangkah Kulon Village, Ujungpangkah, Gresik. This training was attended by 10 participants consisting of tour guides and managers of the tourist area. This activity is part of the Community Partnership Program (PKM) with the title “PKM Empowerment of Mangrove Managers Through the Edutourism Package Program for Visitors as Income Generating for the Sustainability of the Cisiu Island Mangrove Edupark Management.” This activity was chaired by Mochamad Arif Zainul Fuad S.Kel., M.Sc. with members Prof. Dr. Ir. Pudji Purwanti, MP, Ledhyane Ika harlyan, S.Pi., M.Sc., Ph.D. In addition, it also involved 4 students, namely Nuril Haq Bilqishima Masdian, Rachmat Ramadhan Prasetio, Valeryan Ramana Putra, and Aulia Intan Rahmanissa. This program is funded by the Directorate of Research, Technology, and Community Service (DRTPM) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology.
The training was guided by Mrs. Maria Cecilia, an experienced batik trainer and owner of Sanggar Lembayung Batik from Malang, who has provided batik training for various groups. In this activity, participants were trained to make batik with motifs inspired by the Cisiu Mangrove ecosystem, such as Glodong fish, crabs, and mangrove trees. These motifs were chosen to depict the richness of flora and fauna in the mangrove area, while strengthening local identity in the batik products produced.
During the training, participants learned basic batik techniques, including the stages of “canting”, applying wax, to coloring using synthetic batik dyes. Each participant was directed to draw a motif that matches the theme of the mangrove ecosystem on the cloth and was trained in the right coloring techniques to produce clear and artistic patterns. In addition to technical skills, participants also gained an understanding of the potential of batik as a creative economic product that can support the economic sustainability of ecotourism managers.
This activity is expected to provide a positive impact by providing new economic opportunities for the managers of Mangrove Edupark Pulau Cisiu. Through the creation of batik with typical mangrove motifs, it is hoped that the managers can create value-added products that are attractive to visitors, so that they can become a source of additional income. Thus, this training not only focuses on developing creative skills, but also on increasing the sustainability of the local economy, which will support the sustainability of the mangrove ecosystem more comprehensively. [MAZ]
Activity video:
