Wastra | September-October 2026 Edition | NOW! Jakarta

From batik to tenun, every tapestry tells a story. In this edition of NOW! Jakarta, we follow the threads to the origins of Indonesia's textile heritage, uncovering influences and traditions, whilst exploring what the future has in store for 'wastra'.

We explore the many regional accents of Indonesian batik, from Jambi's riverine motifs to Lasem's blood-red dye, discuss the kebaya's centuries-long and often contested evolution into a national symbol, and showcase the designers weaving Dayak rattan and tenun into contemporary silhouettes. We also speak to Benny Gratha, the wastra curator entrusted with safeguarding more than 2,500 pieces of Indonesia's textile heritage.

But that's not all: read all about the Mahjong Mania taking over the city, our review of Home by Leila S. Chudori, the new Belgian Ambassador and our usual columns on business, culture, art, and family.

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