Many years ago, when I first begun painting in school, I asked for some advice from my art teachers, all of whom are great artists, namely Wong Han Zhong, Tan Tong & Fatimah Chik.
I knew an artist’s life is not easy especially in Malaysia, where the economy is still developing and a high demand for art is not there yet as compared to that of a developed country’s. I have deep respect for all artists – rich or poor, they are happy everyday, hold their brush happily, paint with all their hearts and express their inner feelings through colours.
A publisher’s life is not easy too, especially as the publisher of a magazine that caters for a very niche market. It was a challenge from the beginning for myBatik and is still a challenge today. But I am happy that we had managed to pull through all obstacles since 2007.
Every issue of myBatik magazine is just like a painting. From the collecting of articles, data, write ups, photographs and information, until the designing stage and proof-reading at the end, we go through a step by step process, just like painting an art piece. I am grateful to have a very professional team. One of myBatik’s aims is to get the attention of our readers and create a deeper awareness for batik either locally or abroad. We hope in this modern world, everyone, especially the young generation, will always remember batik either as a cultural identity, art or craft.
A bit of progress on myBatik. With the publication of the 16th issue of myBatik, it will now hit the news stands. This is yet another challenge for myBatik team as we have now entered a different stage. We hope to get a good response from all of you, readers and together let’s appreciate what arts, culture and heritage can do to make the world a better place to live in. Grab yourself a copy of myBatik magazine now at any MPH outlet and buy Malaysian Batik a HOPE. Enjoy this issue and we look forward to receiving your comments and letters.
Cheers!
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012