Modern Use Of Batik Sarong Impresses Wife Of Former M'sian Prime Minister

Nani Rahayu Yusof NEW YORK, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Dr Siti Hasmah, wife of the former Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad was most impressed by the efforts taken by members of Perwakilan New York (group of wives of Malaysian diplomats) who highlighted the use of batik sarongs in modern and exclusive fashion. She expressed her delight during a fashion show organised by the ladies at the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the United Nations Hall, here on Thursday. The event, inspired by the wife of Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sharifah Raguan Syed Ismail, saw its members sashay wearing modern interpretations of the batik sarong, also known as the batik kampong. Siti Hasmah (second from left) had shown particular interest in a batik sarong worn as a long skirt by one of the Perwakilan members at the Perwakilan New York With Dr Siti Hasmah Function. Present at the event was the Malaysian Foreign Minister's wife Siti Rubiah Abdul Samad (second from right), who was in the city accompanying her husband attend the United Nations General Assembly. The wife of Malaysia's Ambassador to the United States, Rohayazam Kamaruzaman, also attended the function with more than 20 members of Perwakilan New York. Siti Hasmah and other guests were entertained by dances such as the 'Awallah Dongdang' and 'Joget Kelantan', while enjoying local delicacies such as the 'Laksa Johor', 'Roti Jala' and Chicken Curry, 'Pulut Kuning' and 'Rendang Daging' as well as the 'Kuih Talam Keladi'. Earlier in her speech, Sharifah Raguan said Dr Siti Hasmah has contributed much towards the development of women which has a positive impact on the country. "Siti Hasmah's patience and efforts for Malaysia's development is also felt by women around the world. All her contributions and sacrifices for the Perwakilan Malaysia is greatly respected and Perwakilan New York is honoured to have her here," she added. On the batik sarong, Sharifah Raguan said they wanted to bring something new to the batik sarong which seems to be forgotten with the times. (photoBERNAMA) MALAYSIA