Wear the past in the present for the future

The way we dress affects our mood and also self-esteem. It may also affect others around us. Batik fashion is well known among Malaysians and there exist various types of batik based on region and ethnic influence. Traditionally batik is generally known as either Batik Malaysia or Batik Indonesia. Later other more localized groups of batik became popular such as Batik Kelantan, Batik Pahang and Batik Terengganu. Lately, one of the regions coming up with their own unique batik is Borneo commonly called Batik Borneo. Batik Borneo capitalizes on the traditional design motifs popular among prominent indigenous groups of Borneo. In 2008, Malaysian government introduced the policy of wearing batik on Thursdays for civil officers in order to support the batik industry. The main purpose of this paper is to expose Batik Borneo among fashion community and also as a tool for preserving and conserving cultural heritage while also support the local economy. This paper discusses about the possible roles of librarians and libraries in applying fashion for the promotion of the traditional cultural heritage for the benefit of future generations. Highlights of the beauty and uniqueness of Batik Borneo will also be shared in a short video presentation. This paper also shows that library users feel comfortable when dealing with staff wearing batik. Batik is a good wear for library staff because it provides positive feeling not just to themselves but also library users.