Kebaya showcase of grace in motion

A line-up of senior participants wearing the traditional outfit with pride.

THE kebaya is a traditional outfit worn by women across several South-East Asian countries, including Malaysia.

Community group Locco, which aims to advocate and showcase the best of Malaysia, held the Lenggang Kebaya flashmob at Merdeka Stadium in Kuala Lumpur to celebrate and raise awareness of the kebaya, which is a symbol of Malaysia’s cultural heritage.

With the Merdeka 118 tower behind them, participants wore their outfits in various vibrant colours with pride, complemented by beaded shoes as well as umbrellas and parasols.

They also engaged in activities such as colouring and collage where they designed their own kebaya on the templates.

The Lenggang Kebaya flashmob members posing in front of the imposing Merdeka 118 tower in Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: LOW BOON TAT/The Star

Locco business development and event director Shamsul Bahrin Zainuzzaman was reported to have said that the event was a unifying platform for Malaysians to embrace the kebaya as an intangible cultural heritage.

“The kebaya represents national pride, unity and appreciation for our multicultural identity.

“By preserving the kebaya, we ensure future generations continue to cherish this elegant symbol of Malaysia’s shared cultural roots,” he said.

Earlier this month, the kebaya was added to the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage List following a joint nomination by Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.