The recent recognition of the kebaya as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) will open up opportunities for tourism growth in Penang, which is also known for its Kebaya Nyonya.
Penang's Tourism and Creative Economy Committee Chairman Wong Hon Wai stated that the kebaya, including the Kebaya Nyonya, represents the Peranakan culture, which is closely tied to the identity of Penang.
"The recent recognition by UNESCO is a highly proud achievement for Malaysia. It not only highlights our cultural heritage but also places Malaysia on the global stage.
"It opens up opportunities for tourism growth in Malaysia, particularly in Penang, while celebrating the harmony of our multicultural society and ensuring that this valuable heritage is continuously appreciated and preserved for future generations," he told Bernama.
On December 5, Malaysia successfully received recognition for the intangible cultural heritage element, the kebaya, alongside Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) in a statement reported that the decision was made through the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (IGC ICH), which took place in Asuncion, Paraguay, from December 2 to 7.
The kebaya: ‘Knowledge, Skills, Traditions and Practices’, under the category ‘Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’, was nominated jointly with four other countries.
Commenting further, Wong said that in Penang, the heritage of the kebaya is not just a garment; it represents history, art, and the unity of diverse cultures. Therefore, this achievement reflects their commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage while strengthening unity among Malaysians.
"For Penang, we will continue to ensure that the kebaya heritage lives on and is appreciated both locally and internationally," he said.
Meanwhile, kebaya fashion designer Dr. Kenny Loh said that the recognition of the kebaya as an element of UNESCO’s cultural heritage will further develop the textile industry, especially the kebaya, on the global stage.
Involved in the kebaya fashion industry for the past seven years, he said this recognition would also open doors for fashion designers, particularly those in the kebaya field, to introduce kebaya fashion internationally, thus promoting the country's culture through the kebaya.
"This recognition will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the kebaya fashion industry because it will indirectly introduce various types of kebaya, such as Kebaya Songket and Kebaya Nyonya, to the international stage.
"It also provides an opportunity for designers to showcase our kebaya, and I believe it will be well-received abroad due to its uniqueness and beauty. Now is the time to continue promoting it, especially since it has received UNESCO recognition," he said.
Source: Awani