Malay Kebaya: The History and Influences of Other Silhoutte

Abstract

This paper will look at Malay kebaya. Malay kebaya are common Malay traditional dresses that have been worn by Malay women from generation to generation and are cherished by the society until today. In fact, other ethnic groups such as Chinese, Indian and Peranakan in Malaysia who practice different beliefs and cultures, feel proud to slip into these Malay traditional dresses as they represents multiracial harmony in Malaysia. Kebaya as compared to baju kurung is facing bigger challenges to compete in the borderless world of fashion and technology. Back in the old days, kebaya is considered common everyday attire for Malay women, however, the status has changed as it is now worn only to formal events and weddings. Equally, the Malays have their own unique kebaya which portrays their identity. Malay kebaya consists of baju belah, long kebaya (kebaya labuh) with lapel (kebaya lepel) and short kebaya as known as kebaya pendek. This paper contributes to new knowledge regarding archiving Malay kebaya which acts as a useful indicator in preserving costumes heritage. The outcome of this research will allow preservation and documentation of the cultural and heritage costumes in systematically order.