Developing the Creativity of Indonesian Migrant Children through Paper Batik Activities Using Food Coloring at Learning Centers in Malaysia

Abstrak

Paper Batik Activities is an innovative program implemented at the Malaysia Guidance Studio aimed at developing the creativity of Indonesian migrant children through learning the art of paper batik. Indonesian migrant children in Malaysia face limited access to education, particularly in activities related to art development and cultural preservation. This case study was conducted at the Petaling Jaya Guidance Studio in Malaysia, involving 10 students aged 5 – 12 years. This activity involves hands-on practice in making batik artworks using paper as the medium, where the batik patterns are drawn and colored with food coloring. The choice of food coloring is based on safety, ease of use for children, and a variety of colors that can stimulate creative expression. The learning method applied is participatory and hands-on, where children are directly involved in the entire process from drawing the patterns, coloring, to drying the finished works. The learning approach is designed to be fun and interactive so that children can freely explore their creativity. This study uses a qualitative method with data collection techniques through participatory observation, direct interviews with children, and documentation of activity processes. The results of the activities show that the children were very enthusiastic in participating, able to express creativity through variations in patterns and color combinations, and gained an understanding of batik as Indonesian culture.