President Jokowi Urges Preservation of Kebaya on National Kebaya Day

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has called upon the Indonesian people to preserve the kebaya as a vital part of the nation’s cultural heritage. This appeal was made during the celebration of National Kebaya Day, which was commemorated for the first time following the issuance of a presidential decree.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, President Jokowi emphasized the importance of nurturing a love for the kebaya, stating, “My wife—Iriana—and I invite all Indonesian people to love kebaya as part of our culture.”

A kebaya is a traditional upper garment typically worn by women in Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia. It is often made from silk, cotton, or lace and is renowned for its intricate designs and cultural significance.

President Jokowi announced that various types of Indonesian kebaya will be submitted for UNESCO nomination alongside entries from four other ASEAN countries. These include the Labuh kebaya from Sumatra, Kutu Baru kebaya from Java, Noni kebaya from North Sulawesi, Nona kebaya from the eastern region of Maluku and Papua, and Kerancang kebaya.

“On this National Kebaya Day, let us preserve the kebaya so that our culture remains and does not become extinct,” Jokowi remarked, underscoring the garment’s cultural value.

President Jokowi and First Lady Iriana attended the inaugural National Kebaya Day celebration in Jakarta, where Jokowi donned a batik outfit in a blend of brown and white, while First Lady Iriana wore a blue velvet kebaya. The event featured a kebaya exhibition showcasing a range of styles and designs, with notable public figures such as actress Widyawati participating.

The celebration highlighted the kebaya’s cultural heritage and reinforced the importance of its preservation for future generations.