Bringing the kebaya back into the fold

Lim Swee Lim's well- known nyonya kebaya that were displayed at the Craft Museum at the Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex.

It is not just a piece of clothing, but a symbol of adaptation, acceptance and empowerment, as well as a reminder of a time when Malaysians were more relaxed and knew how to have fun.

DURING one of my trips back home, I came across old photo albums tucked away in the corner of what is left of my late grandfather’s library. One particular photo caught my eye – where my mother, her sisters and other young women were photographed in elegant kebayas and sarongs, presumably at a locally organised social event.