The kebaya, a long sleeved upper garment traditionally made from a variety of fabrics and often adorned with intricate embroidery, has been added to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s list of intangible cultural heritage.

Intangible cultural heritage refers to traditions or living expressions that are inherited and passed on between generations such as the performing arts, social practices and norms, rituals and festivals.

The kebaya became fashionable at the turn of the 20th century and the culture has been preserved which is why Unesco decided to add it on its list of cultural heritages besides buildings and dwellings.

In a statement to the media, the Pinang Peranakan Baba Nyonya Association stated that it was thrilled and pleased at the recognition given to the kebaya by Unesco and believe it to be a timely endorsement of its rich cultural heritage.

They added that it is not just about being a Baba Nyonya attire but the fact is that it is shared by many cultures, the Nusantara or Indo-Malaysian archipelago and is also worn by many girls and women in the Asean region.

Kebaya was inscribed in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco after a joint nomination by Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Thailand and announced at the 19th session of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE