Lada says the fashion gala reflects the unity and richness of the region’s cultural heritage.
THE Asean Ladies’ Circle (ALC) hosted a fashion gala themed “Threading Asean Unity through Kebaya & Sarong in Kuala Lumpur”.
The event aimed to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Asean, promoting regional unity through fashion, culture and cuisine as well as celebrating the successful multi-country nomination of the iconic kebaya to Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
The event was also an expression of solidarity by ALC and Asean diplomatic missions based in the country in support of Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship next year.
The event was initiated by ALC Thailand as a fundraising event and backed by the other nine ALCs.
The current ALC president is Thai Ambassador to Malaysia Lada Phumas. Also providing support was Wisma Putra.
In her welcoming remarks, Lada highlighted the objectives and significance of the event, saying it was to reflect the unity and richness of the region’s cultural heritage through its traditional attire, which symbolised grace and resilience.
Also at the event was ALC patron Raja Datin Seri Salbiah Tengku Nujumudin, spouse of the Foreign Minister.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac) deputy secretary-general Datuk Mohd Yusri Mohd Yusoff spoke on the government’s commitment to fostering cooperation in preserving and promoting Asean’s cultural heritage.
Varieties of the elegant kebaya on display during the event in Kuala Lumpur.
He also highlighted Motac’s instrumental role in the Unesco kebaya nomination by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore.
The fashion gala featured traditional and modern designs of kebaya, sarong and various national dresses, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Asean as well as the uniqueness of each garment.
The cultural performances featured a series of vibrant showcases highlighting the rich traditions of Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand and Singapore.
Each Asean embassy also proudly presented authentic dishes from their country for the reception.
A live auction featured an exquisite collection of artworks, offering not only visual splendour but also profound narratives of inspiration, culture and empowerment.
The raffle draw featured an array of prizes sponsored by ALC member countries as well as air tickets from Thai Airways, AirAsia Thailand and AirAsia Malaysia, vouchers for hotel stays and handicrafts.
There was also a display of batik and Peranakan costume jewellery, with ALC Thailand’s booth displaying Peranakan outfits in modern designs from Phuket.
Some of the kebaya dresses and jewellery exhibited at the event were flown in by Peranakan Association of Thailand to showcase the beauty of traditional Phuket Kebaya, which is a testament of the historic linkage and enduring bond between Thailand and Malaysia, and the region.
Proceeds from the fashion gala were channelled to ALC Fund for future charitable initiatives benefitting local communities.
