Diversity in every stitch at 'The Secret Of Kebaya' exhibition in KL

A close-up detail of the 'Baju Kebaya Sulam' - a short kebaya, with filigree embroidery of a gold fish pattern and flowers made of plain black voile. It is worn with a sleeveless inner garment and embellished with ketuk lubang (punched holes). This garment is matched by a 'Pekalongan' batik sarong tied in the front fold style. Typically worn by Peranakan Chinese and Chetti women. Photo: The Star/Daryl Goh

The wearing of the baju kebaya has long had a strong cultural presence in Malaysia’s multiracial society.

As a traditional clothing, the kebaya represents a significant part of the cultural heritage and identity of women from the Malay, Peranakan (Chinese, Baba Nyonya, Chetti, Siamese, Kristang) and other communities in Malaysia, as well as other countries in South-East Asia.