A TOTAL of 200 pieces of batik-designed cotton face masks were distributed to the frontliners at the Covid-19 vaccination centre (PPV) in Setia SPICE Convention Centre (Setia SPICE CC) today as a gesture of appreciation for their hard work.
The batik face masks were sponsored by Penang’s very own batik manufacturer, the ‘Batek-Lah Collection’ under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme.
The owner of ‘Batek-Lah Collection’, James Lim said he wanted to encourage the public to wear double mask as recommended by the Word Health Organisation (WHO) in order to reduce the exposure to Covid-19.
“We all know that WHO has suggested that we follow the double-masking practices by using a surgical mask on the inside and a cloth mask on the outside to protect us from the new variants of the coronavirus.
“Thus, that is why we are here to distribute the batik cloth face masks which would be a comfortable wear. And it surely will make the individuals look more vibrant with its fashionable designs.
“At the same time, this will be our token of love to the frontliners who are serving the community with much dedication,’’ Lim said during the face mask distribution programme at the Setia SPICE CC today.
The programme was facilitated by the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
Lim said that the ‘Batek-Lah Collection’ has launched the online sale at its website ( www.batek-lah.com )since the beginning of the year, and are now offering a 20% discount for first time purchases.
“Individuals who are fully vaccinated with the Covid-19 vaccine are welcome to drop by our outlet to claim their special gift from us,” added Lim.
Lim’s boutique, is located at 158, Transfer Road, George Town, and is open daily from 10am to 6pm. The boutique can be reached at 04-228 2910.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, who was the chief guest at the event, said the Batek-Lah is one of the few Penang batik makers who produce their batik in-house.
“Batek-Lah is one of Penang’s homegrown creative economy industry members, and we would like to thank them for being thoughtful of the frontliners in Setia SPICE CC PPV.
“These batik face masks from Batek-Lah, which are handmade in Penang, are not only compliant to the SOP but are also beautiful and are a form of wearable art.
‘’Penang Batik may not be as famous as those from other regions, but I am proud to share that we have talented and skilled batik artisans in our state,’’ Yeoh said.
He added that the art of batik-making is slowly fading away just like other creative skill-based arts.
“I hope that the public will support local artisans and purchase batik face masks, which are sustainable, washable and reusable to double mask over their surgical masks.
“I call upon the people of Penang to proudly wear our local art and be an ambassador for local designs,” he said.
Apart from that, Yeoh said the state government, through the Tourism and Creative Economy Committee (PETACE), is committed to growing the creative industry and making it a sustainable part of Penang’s economy as well as preserving its identity.
“Creative economy is proven to have played a significant role in achieving inclusive and sustainable societal development.
“With the Covid-19 pandemic hitting all aspects of the Malaysian economy, I am feeling optimistic that with the right policies and initiatives at the federal and state levels, including the local government, our creative industry will be restored in due time.”
Meanwhile, Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, who was also present, highlighted the importance of collaboration in the business events industry.
“PCEB always encourages its partners in the business events industry to find ways to continue marketing themselves and their products.
“A constant connection and reminder to the existing and new clients as well as creating a positive message through collaboration is vital.
‘’Throughout this year, we have been emphasising the power of collaboration,’’ Ashwin said.
Also present was Setia SPICE CC head Roslan Omar.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix Darwina Mohd Daud