Kebaya Recognized by UNESCO as Icon of Southeast Asian Culture
In a momentous decision, the kebaya has been inscribed onto UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement, made on December 4, recognized the traditional blouse as a powerful symbol of Southeast Asian identity and cultural unity.
A Collaborative Effort Across Nations
This historic inscription represents a unprecedented collaboration between five Southeast Asian nations: Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. It is the largest nomination from the region to date, highlighting the kebaya’s widespread significance across diverse cultures.
“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,” a National Heritage Board (NHB) representative stated.
Celebrating Shared Heritage
Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong hailed the inscription as “a milestone to be celebrated.” He emphasized the kebaya’s ability to connect people across borders, embodying “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,” Tong added.
Uniting Diverse Communities
The kebaya’s journey to UNESCO recognition was marked by extensive community involvement, reflecting its deep-rooted presence in the lives of Southeast Asians.
The nominating countries were commended for the cohesion shown in recognizing the kebaya as a unifying element, connecting diverse cultures and communities across geographical boundaries. “For the first time, these five nations have joined forces to recognize the kebaya as a symbol of our shared history and cultural identity,” Tong affirmed.
Global Recognition for a Regional Treasure
Sufiyanto Amat Sopingi, founder of Kebaya Societe, celebrated the inscription, stating that “the kebaya is further recognised on a global scale as a garment that’s synonymous with our region.”
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List aims to raise awareness of unique cultural expressions worldwide, encouraging dialogue and celebrating the diversity of human traditions. It serves as a powerful platform to safeguard cherished cultural practices for generations to come, ensuring their continued transmission and appreciation.
## Kebaya Takes Center Stage: A Cultural Icon Celebrated
**Host:** Joining us today to celebrate this momentous occasion is [Guest Name], a leading expert on Southeast Asian textiles and culture. Welcome to the show!
**Guest:** Thank you for having me. It’s truly an exciting day for Southeast Asia.
**Host:** Absolutely! UNESCO has officially inscribed the kebaya onto its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. What does this recognition mean for the region?
**Guest:** This is a landmark achievement. [1](https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/nhb-launches-kebaya-exhibition-after-unesco-intangible-heritage-list-nomination) This recognition by UNESCO isn’t just about a garment; it’s about honoring the shared history, traditions, and artistry of five Southeast Asian nations: Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The kebaya is more than just clothing; it’s a symbol of our cultural identity and unity.
**Host:** You mentioned it was a collaborative effort. Tell us more about the significance of five countries coming together for this nomination.
**Guest:** This is truly unprecedented. Never before have these five nations collaborated on a UNESCO nomination of this magnitude. It speaks volumes about the deep cultural significance of the kebaya and the desire to safeguard its heritage for future generations. It demonstrates the power of collaboration in celebrating our shared cultural tapestry.
**Host:** The kebaya, with its intricate designs and diverse regional variations, is a beautiful representation of Southeast Asian artistry. What can we expect to see in terms of safeguarding and promoting this cultural treasure now that it has UNESCO recognition?
**Guest:** This inscription brings with it a renewed focus on preserving and promoting the kebaya. We can anticipate see increased efforts in documenting different kebaya styles, supporting traditional artisans who create them, and organizing educational programs to raise awareness about its cultural significance. It’s a chance to ensure that this invaluable piece of our heritage continues to thrive in the years to come.
**Host:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today, [Guest Name]. This is truly a momentous occasion for Southeast Asia, and we look forward to witnessing the continued celebration and appreciation of the kebaya.
