[//]:content-type-MARKDOWN-DONOT-DELETE  We are pleased to share the successful completion of the "Nurturing Communities through Local Batik Art Development" program, conducted by GateCharity in collaboration with Pusat Unggulan Ipteks (PUI) Geowisata Merangin, Universitas Jambi. This initiative, held from February 16-18, 2024, aimed to empower the local communities of Air Batu Village through the development of batik art, a valuable cultural and economic asset.  The program involved a 3-day visit to Air Batu Village by the GateCharity Team and PUI, where they interacted with the local community, explaining the program details and documenting the batik-making process. Handwritten batik, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and creativity, was the focus of this training, providing a more valuable option compared to hand-stamped batik.  After the creation of the batik fabrics, a local representative sent them to Tarmizi's address for photography, before their shipment to China. This program is notable for the considerable journey involved, with a travel time of approximately 7-8 hours from the nearest city, Merangin, to Air Batik Village.  The primary audience for this program was the local communities in Air Batu Village. The initiative was part of our commitment to exploring the potential of the Merangin Geoheritage area and promoting entrepreneurship based on local resources and wisdom.  This batik training program for women in Air Batu Village aimed to improve economic conditions, promote inclusiveness and accessibility, and foster community growth. The development of batik in Air Batu Village aligns with several key objectives:  1. Economic Improvement: Batik production offers economic value for the people, complementing their main agricultural activities. 2. MSME Development: Batik provides an avenue for developing new micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 3. Tourist Attraction: The batik craft adds to the village's appeal as a Geopark tourist destination, offering unique souvenirs to visitors. 4. Cultural Icon: Local batik with unique motifs enhances the cultural identity of Air Batu Village. Two batik motifs from Air Batu Village have received Intellectual Property Rights (HKI). The first is the "Air Batu" motif, inspired by the village's natural and cultural riches, including bamboo, coconut, fern leaves, betel leaves, and Araucarioxylon fossils. The second is the “Buluh Batuah Sayak Baguno” motif, depicting bamboo trees and coconut shells, symbolizing the village's abundant natural resources and cultural heritage, including the Sayak Dance.   We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, the local community of Air Batik Village, and our partners for making this program a success. This initiative not only highlights the rich cultural heritage of Air Batu Village but also sets a precedent for future community empowerment programs through local art and craft development.  **Blockchain Access to Change Lives** Build a world where everyone can access financial services and help via blockchain solutions whenever and wherever needed. Gate Charity Twitter: https://twitter.com/gatecharity Gate Charity February 20th, 2024