The kebaya is a traditional dress worn by women in several countries across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. A significant part of the cultural heritage and identity of women in this region, Malaysia and four other countries today took the initiative to submit a nomination for the kebaya to be recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
In a press release today, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) revealed that our country alongside Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand jointly submitted the multi-national nomination to UNESCO. The submission is for the garment to be included in its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for the year 2023.
MOTAC elaborated that the kebaya meets the definition of intangible cultural heritage elements. This is because the garment requires traditional craftsmanship skills such as embroidery and sewing techniques. The statement added,
“The kebaya is also associated with other forms of cultural heritage, such as festive occasions and weddings. There is an active community of makers and wearers of kebaya who share and transmit the knowledge and socio-cultural value of the kebaya from one generation to another.”
Lauding the kebaya’s ability to promote and celebrate the shared cultural heritage found in Southeast Asia, MOTAC said that the garment’s continued presence represents and celebrates the region’s rich and shared history, as well as promotes cross-cultural understanding. Accordingly, all participating countries were involved in a series of working meetings since early 2022.
The results of the nomination would be decided during the 19th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2024. Should the kebaya be recognised in UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for the year 2023, then it will truly be a proud moment for all 5 nations involved.
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