BATIK AS A CULTURAL IDENTITY AND SYMBOL OF NATIONAL IDEOLOGY IN THE PRACTICE OF HAJJ

Abstract

Batik as an Indonesian heritage has aesthetic value as well as deep philosophical and ideological meaning. This study examines the role of batik as part of cultural identity and a symbol of national ideology in the practice of the Hajj pilgrimage, especially since it became the official uniform for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in the 1980s. This study uses a literature review method with a cultural circuit approach to analyze identity elements. Data sources were obtained from journals, books, and relevant documents that discuss batik, national ideology, and Hajj practices. The approach taken comes from Stuart Hall's concept of cultural identity which views identity as a dynamic and fluid social construction, as well as a hybrid. In addition, this study refers to Anthony D. Smith's theory of national identity and cites the role of the Pancasila ideology as a fundamental value of nationalism. This study found that batik functions as a symbol that combines cultural identity with national ideology in the context of the Hajj pilgrimage. The policy of wearing batik uniforms for Hajj pilgrims not only strengthens Indonesia's cultural identity on the international stage but also functions as a medium to convey nationalist ideological values.

Keywords: Batik, Cultural Identity, National Ideology, Hajj