Indonesia’s Quest to Crown Kebaya an Intangible Cultural Treasure
Efforts are underway to earn global recognition for Indonesia’s iconic kebaya, a stunning traditional garment worn by women across the archipelago. The national kebaya team, dedicated to preserving and promoting this cultural heirloom, is spearheading the campaign to have it designated by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Community-Driven Initiative
The movement to secure UNESCO recognition originates from the grassroots level, reflecting the deep admiration and reverence Indonesians hold for the kebaya. “Nomination submissions to UNESCO must come from the community, not directly from the government. The community is the one who encourages the government to take further steps,” explained Lana T. Koentjoro, chair of the national kebaya team.
This community-driven approach has garnered significant government support. While the official nomination must originate from the people, the relevant ministry, formerly the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, has issued a letter of recommendation, demonstrating its commitment to the campaign.
A Multifaceted Mission
The national kebaya team has set forth an ambitious agenda. Their primary goals include:
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Establishing National Kebaya Day: A designated day to celebrate and raise awareness about the kebaya’s significance.
- Securing UNESCO Recognition: To enshrine the kebaya’s cultural heritage status and promote its conservation on a global scale.
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Preserving the Kebaya Tradition: To document and transmit the knowledge, skills, and techniques involved in making and wearing the kebaya to future generations.
- Promoting the Kebaya Internationally: To showcase the elegance and artistry of the kebaya through cultural diplomacy and outreach initiatives.
Awaiting UNESCO’s Verdict
Following the establishment of National Kebaya Day, all eyes are on UNESCO. A crucial decision on whether to grant the kebaya the coveted Intangible Cultural Heritage status is scheduled to be announced on December 2, 2024, in Paraguay.
Spreading the Kebaya Love
To further ignite public enthusiasm for the kebaya, the national kebaya team has launched a series of engaging events.
The Nusantara Kebaya Parade, held in various regions including Solo, Central Java, Kalimantan, and North Sumatra, has attracted thousands of participants.
This display of vibrant colors, intricate designs, and regional variations of the kebaya has showcased the garment’s enduring popularity and cultural diversity.
Bridging Tradition and Modernity
Recognizing the importance of engaging younger generations, the team has also partnered with young designers. This collaboration aims to fuse traditional elements with contemporary styles, creating modern kebayas that appeal to younger audiences while still honoring the garment’s heritage.
Documenting a Timeless Legacy
To ensure the kebaya’s history and evolution are properly recorded, the national kebaya team is actively engaged in documenting its journey. This preservation effort involves literacy initiatives, publications, and books, ensuring the kebaya’s story continues to be told and celebrated.
How would UNESCO recognition impact the kebaya and Indonesia?
## Indonesia’s Kebaya Seeks UNESCO Recognition
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re discussing Indoneasia’s efforts to secure UNESCO recognition for its iconic traditional garment, the kebaya. Joining us today is Lana T. Koentjoro, chair of the national kebaya team spearheading this important campaign. Welcome, Lana.
**Lana:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Lana, can you tell us more about the kebaya and what makes it so special to Indonesia’s cultural heritage?
**Lana:** The kebaya is truly a national treasure. Worn by women across the archipelago, it’s more than just a garment; it’s a symbol of our history, artistry, and identity. Each region has its unique kebaya styles and techniques, reflecting the diversity of our culture.
**Host:** I understand there’s a strong community aspect to this campaign for UNESCO recognition. Can you elaborate on that?
**Lana:** Absolutely. The movement began at the grassroots level, driven by the deep love and admiration Indonesians have for the kebaya [[1](https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/sector-development/unesco/kebaya)]. It’s the community who is encouraging the government to support our nomination.
**Host:** That’s inspiring to hear! What are some of the key goals your team is working towards?
**Lana:** We have a multifaceted plan. Firstly, we aim to establish a National Kebaya Day to raise awareness and celebrate its significance. Secondly, and most importantly, we’re pushing for UNESCO recognition to enshrine the kebaya’s cultural heritage status on a global platform. we’re committed to preserving the kebaya tradition for future generations by promoting its knowledge, skills, and practices.
**Host:** It sounds like a truly worthy cause. What does UNESCO recognition mean for the kebaya and for Indonesia?
**Lana:** UNESCO recognition would be a tremendous honor for Indonesia, validating the kebaya’s significance not just locally, but internationally. It would also provide much-needed support for preserving and promoting this cultural treasure for generations to come.
**Host:** Lana, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today. We wish you and your team all the best in your quest to crown the kebaya an Intangible Cultural Treasure.
**Lana:** Thank you very much for having me.
