Established in 1974 by Mr Tan Koon Yong (1933–1986), I. B. Batek Industrial was one of the largest and last batik making enterprises in Singapore – and a reminder of the manufacturing that once dominated Singapore’s early economic development. They specialised in stamped batik designs. I. B. Batek batiks made for furnishing and garments, were wholesaled to retailers or factories to be finished into cushion covers, tablecloths, napkins, as well as ready-to-wear clothes. I. B. Batek Industrial was largely a family business with the core employees often being relatives, friends, and family members. Upon Mr Tan’s passing, his wife Ms Ong Kue Neo (born 1941) became managing partner and supervised operations. Two craftsmen were recruited to make the stamps such as this example. Susatio, from Yogyakarta, worked for I. B. Batek for 10 years, producing copper stamps of mainly Javanese motifs. Hamid Rahman, from Kelantan, worked between 1973 and 1987, creating most of the stamps with Singapore motifs, including hibiscus, orchids, and the Merlion.
