UNESCO Officially Recognized Kebaya, A Symbol Of Nusantara Identity Globally

The Indonesian Kebaya National Team Community received a copy of the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Certificate for kebaya from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The head of the Indonesian Kebaya National Team, Lana T. Koentjoro, said that the submission of a copy of the kebaya determination certificate as a World Takbent Cultural Heritage by UNESCO is a form of collaboration between various parties in an effort to maintain the sustainability of the kebaya as part of Indonesia's cultural identity.

According to Lana, this success cannot be separated from the community's commitment to propose the kebaya and the long struggle that has been carried out. He hopes that the cooperation that has been built can continue to be strengthened, so that the preservation of kebaya can be carried out consistently and thoroughly in the future.

Lana insists that UNESCO's recognition is not the endpoint, but a first step towards expanding the involvement of future generations and promoting kebaya further to international levels to remain relevant and alive.

Meanwhile, Miranti Serd Ginanjar, Editor of the book "Kebaya Keanggunan yang Diwariskan", explained that the publication of the book is part of a strategy so that kebaya is more valued as a living heritage in the global arena. She believes that cultural diplomacy through this work can open up wider appreciation space for the value of Indonesian women's aesthetics, traditions, and creativity.

"With more open access to global readers, opportunities for collaboration between designers, kebaya craftsmen, and MSME players will be even greater," Lana added.

The certificate submission procession took place on Tuesday, November 2, at the National Museum of Indonesia, where the Ministry of Foreign Affairs handed over the certificate to the Ministry of Culture to be forwarded to the local government and the proposing community.

The Indonesian Kebaya National Team with Women's Coach Kus Wisnu Wardani, Lestari Moerdijat, and Kartini Sjahrir consist of various communities such as Women Indonesia Maju, Indonesian Mothers, Citra Kartini Indonesia, Kebaya Foundation, Women Welfare Indonesia, to Rampak Sarinah.

On the same occasion, the Ministry of Culture also received UNESCO certificates for two other cultural elements, namely Kolintang and Reog Ponorogo. The event was also attended by representatives of ASEAN and African countries, academics, as well as cultural activists and international diplomatic partners.

This determination is the result of the 19th trial of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage which was held in Asunci totaling, Paraguay, on December 3 5, 2024. Especially for kebaya, the determination was made through a multinational nomination with Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Director General of Diplomacy, Promotion, and Culture Cooperation, Endah TD Retnoastuti, emphasized that UNESCO's recognition is proof that Indonesian culture has value recognized by the world. He emphasized the importance of commitment to keep the tradition alive and meaningful for the community.

"This recognition brings pride as well as a big responsibility so that cultural heritage continues to grow and contribute to the life of the nation," explained Endah.