In a momentous decision, the kebaya, a traditional blouse worn across Southeast Asia, has been officially recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The announcement came late Wednesday evening, Singapore time, following a meeting of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Commitee in Asuncion, paraguay.
This prestigious inscription is the culmination of a joint effort by five Southeast Asian nations: Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The collaborative nomination, the largest of its kind from the region, highlights the kebaya’s meaning as a unifying symbol of shared cultural identity.
“The five countries collaborated on a nomination for the first time as the kebaya celebrates our shared cultural identity, promotes cross-cultural understanding, and continues to be present and actively produced and worn by many communities across Southeast Asia,” stated the National Heritage Board (NHB) in a press release.
The nomination received high praise from the UNESCO committee,meeting all five evaluation criteria. Notably, the committee commended the extensive community involvement throughout the nomination process, both at the national and regional levels. They also recognized the kebaya as a powerful symbol that transcends geographical boundaries, connecting diverse cultures and communities.
Edwin Tong, Singapore’s Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and chairman of the Singapore National Commission for UNESCO, hailed the inscription as a “milestone to be celebrated.”
“For the first time, these five nations have joined forces to recognize the kebaya as a symbol of our shared history and cultural identity.Besides recognizing its cultural significance,its inscription on the UNESCO list is also a chance to promote cross-cultural understanding and unity in Singapore and across the region.”
Sufiyanto Amat Sopingi, founder of Kebaya societe, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the global recognition the inscription brings.
“With the UNESCO inscription, the kebaya is further recognized on a global scale as a garment that’s synonymous with our region.”
Established in 2008, the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity aims to safeguard and promote cultural expressions and practices worldwide. By recognizing the kebaya, UNESCO underscores its importance not only as a lovely garment but also as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Southeast Asia.
## The Kebaya: More Than Just a Blouse, a Symbol of Identity
**World today News Exclusive Interview with Ethnographer Dr. Ayu Larasati**
**[Singapore, October 27th,2023]** – In a landmark decision, UNESCO has recognized the kebaya as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This momentous proclamation, made late Wednesday evening Singapore time, came after a meeting of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.world Today News sat down with renowned Indonesian ethnographer Dr. Ayu Larasati to unpack the importance of this decision.
**WTN:** Dr. Larasati, congratulations on this momentous recognition for the kebaya! Could you shed light on what makes the kebaya more than just a piece of clothing?
**Dr. larasati:** Thank you! The kebaya truly transcends the realm of mere attire. It’s a living testament to Southeast Asia’s rich cultural tapestry. passed down through generations, it embodies tradition, craftsmanship, and social values. For women across the region, the kebaya represents elegance, femininity, and pride in their heritage.
**WTN:** The kebaya exists in various forms across southeast Asia. How does this shared garment reflect the region’s cultural diversity?
**Dr. larasati:** While the basic silhouette remains consistent,the kebaya takes on unique characteristics depending on the country and region. In Indonesia, such as, the kebaya often features intricate embroidery and batik patterns, reflecting the nation’s rich textile traditions. in Malaysia, the kebaya often incorporates lace and beads, showcasing a distinct aesthetic. These variations highlight Southeast Asia’s cultural diversity while connecting us through a shared sartorial heritage.
**WTN:** This UNESCO recognition comes at a time when globalization and modernization threaten conventional practices. How do you envision this designation impacting the future of the kebaya?
**dr. Larasati:** This UNESCO recognition is a crucial step in safeguarding the kebaya for future generations. By raising awareness and highlighting its significance, we can inspire a renewed appreciation for this cultural treasure. It encourages designers, artisans, and communities to continue creating and wearing the kebaya, ensuring its survival
**WTN:** What message do you hope this recognition sends to the world?
**Dr. Larasati:** this is a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage. The kebaya is not “just” a blouse; it’s a symbol of identity, creativity, and resilience.
we hope this recognition reminds the world of the importance of preserving cultural diversity and celebrating the traditions that connect us.
**WTN:** Thank you, Dr. Larasati, for your valuable insights.
