Traditional Kebaya Lands on Unesco Heritage List
A Historical Garment that Brings People Together
The tourism, arts and culture ministry describes the kebaya as a garment that “represents our rich shared history” and brings people together by promoting understanding between cultures.
A Collaborative Effort
The announcement was made on Wednesday during a Unesco meeting in Asunción, Paraguay, according to Unesco’s X page. Malaysia, led by the tourism, arts and culture ministry, worked with Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand to nominate the kebaya and has agreed to safeguard the kebaya’s future by organising workshops, classes, and research projects.
A Timeless Tradition
Locally, the kebaya is worn by Malay, Peranakan (Baba Nyonya, Chetti, Siamese, Kristang), and other communities. It is known for its delicate embroidery and sewing techniques which have been passed down through generations. These traditional skills meet Unesco’s criteria for intangible cultural heritage.
A Symbol of Cultural Significance
The kebaya also plays a key role in cultural events like weddings and festivals, and is also worn by Malaysia Airlines flight attendants. The garment is a symbol of cultural significance, and its inscription on the Unesco list recognizes the important role it plays in preserving cultural heritage.
A Long Journey to Recognition
According to a ministry handout online, the nomination process began in 2022 with officials, cultural experts, and kebaya community members from all five countries working together. Malaysia hosted the first workshop in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, in November 2022. This was followed by another workshop in Jakarta in February 2023, hosted by Indonesia. Singapore then led the final online meeting in March 2023 to complete the nomination.
Conclusion
The recognition of the kebaya as an intangible cultural heritage is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and the efforts of the governments and communities involved in its preservation. This achievement will not only promote cross-cultural understanding but also encourage the preservation of traditional skills and techniques.
FAQs
* What is the kebaya?
The kebaya is a traditional garment worn by Malay, Peranakan, and other communities in Southeast Asia.
* Why was the kebaya nominated for Unesco recognition?
The kebaya was nominated for its cultural significance, traditional skills, and its role in promoting understanding between cultures.
* Who were the countries involved in the nomination process?
Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand worked together to nominate the kebaya.
* What is the significance of the kebaya’s inscription on the Unesco list?
The inscription recognizes the kebaya’s importance in preserving cultural heritage and promoting cross-cultural understanding.