Nyonya kebaya steals the show

Looking resplendent: Local women in colourful nyonya kebaya posing at the iconic Jonker Walk at Bandar Hilir in Melaka. — Bernama

MELAKA: The Nyonya kebaya is being promoted as the signature attire to usher in the 50th anniversary of Malaysia and China’s diplomatic ties.

Jonker Walk management committee chairman Datuk Gan Tian Loo said apart from its aesthetic value, the Nyonya kebaya is also a symbol of the deep ties with China that flourished for centuries in the historical city of Melaka.

He said Nyonya kebaya represents the aspects of various cultures that the early Chinese came in contact with and adopted.

“This is our priceless heritage and cultural hybrid that will strengthen the bilateral relations with China and other countries,” he said in an interview yesterday.

Gan added that the Peranakan or Straits Chinese culture is a timeless symbol of racial unity and is emblematic of the country’s multicultural landscape.

“We are promoting the Nyonya kebaya to mark the golden jubilee.

“We will also encourage tourists to wear it when strolling around the night market,” he said.

Gan said traders at the Jonker Walk night market will be encouraged to give customers discounts to encourage them to wear the Nyonya kebaya.

It is common to see tourists from China clad in colourful Nyonya kebaya strolling around the city and checking out heritage sites at Bandar Hilir here.

The Nyonya kebaya was also showcased during a Chinese cultural night event held at Jonker Walk’s main stage on Saturday night.

Malaysia Baba and Nyonya Association chairman Datuk Ronald Gan recently said that the Straits Chinese community hopes to play a significant role in the 50th anniversary celebration of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China this year.

The historical city is set to host the celebration.