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"A photography exhibition and catalogue featuring 75 black and white photos compiled by the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in co-operation with National Archives of Malaysia. These photos highlight the history of Malaysia's formation and exemplify the symbolism contained in the Jalur Gemilang - Courage (red), Unity (blue), Royalty (yellow), Sincerity and Integrity (white), Islam (the crescent) and Malaysia's 13 states and Federal Government (the 14-pointed star and stripes). Quotes from all six Malaysian prime ministers, past and present, further enhance the message of patriotism and prosperity."--Back cover

When Ann Dunham moved to Indonesia, she became captivated by batiks and the lives of batik makers. As an anthropologist, she worked to improve the lives of craftspeople by setting up micro credit and small enterprises. At the same time, she acquired batiks from bustling cities and quiet villages, pieces which were true reflections of the "cloth of the people." The exhibition and accompanying catalogue, entitled "Ann Dunham's Legacy: A Collection of Indonesian Batiks," focuses on the life and work of Ann Dunham, as well as explores the history of batik, how it is made, worn and collected, as well as its alluring array of patterns and motifs. The exhibition and catalogue is further enhanced with selected examples of batik from the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia collection.

Sumptuous textiles have always held special significance in Malay culture, as they uphold long-standing traditions and play central roles in ceremony and ritual. Much has also been said of their beauty and intricacy, which attest to the meticulous skill and virtuosity of Malay artisans. Hand-woven fabrics, like limar, songket and tenun, as well as decorated ones like kelingkan, tekat and telepuk reflect how Malay culture has developed through interactions between local weavers and the outside world. The fact that their form, function and soul have always contained elements of modernity has helped make them competitive and relevant until today.