I love the year end! It is a time of reflection on the past year and resolution for the coming year. As I take a few quiet moments to reflect, I am reminded how grateful I am for the opportunity to lead Batik Boutique. The continual hard work and growth of our artisans in their resolve to bring change to their lives and their families’ futures is impressive and inspiring.
In 2017, we have much to celebrate. This year, Batik Boutique established a new sewing center, executed multiple sewing training programs across Malaysia, and expanded our retail outlet downstairs from our studio. These developments enabled us to empower more artisans. We trained 29 women in sewing skills, provided health screenings, and promoted economic independence through financial literacy training. We partnered with over 150 Malaysian artisans and sold over 20,000 hand-crafted products both in Malaysia and internationally.
Believing in the importance of giving back, Batik Boutique partnered with the Fugee School and the Rotary Club of Subang Jaya to facilitate youth, who are refugees living in Malaysia, start their own brand, Fugeelah.
Image by All Is Amazing
Fugeelah is a collection of student artwork come to life in trendy products for all ages. 100% of the profit from this collection, which was produced in our sewing center, will support the school to educate 160 refugee students in Malaysia.
As we celebrate both our growth and impact for 2017, we commit to more for 2018. We will expand our sewing training program and provide more opportunities for people from marginalized communities to earn fair wages. We also commit to design products you are proud to purchase including corporate gifts, souvenirs, and apparel, and to further develop our batik classes so you can experience the beauty of Malaysian batik in our studio.
Your support is instrumental in our progress and impact. Thank you for empowering us to empower artisans in Malaysia.
Here’s to 2018!
Wishing you a purposeful and Happy New Year,
Amy
Founder and CEO of Batik Boutique
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