Kebayas are usually intricately embroidered with long sleeves, and range from loose cuts to semi-sheer cuts.
In a Malaysian shop, a small group of seamstresses sit on stationary sewing machines, sewing bright flowers and leaves onto kebaya, the traditional outfit worn by women across Southeast Asia.
What makes the kebaya so special is that it is worn by women of all ethnic backgrounds in a diverse region, according to Lim Yu Lin, who co-runs the family business her grandmother founded in 1955.
“It’s not just about one culture,” she told AFP.
Prices vary
In a moment of unity, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand have jointly nominated the kabbaya to the United Nations’ list of intangible cultural heritage, with a decision expected in 2024.
Kebayas are usually intricately embroidered with long sleeves, and range from loose cuts to semi-sheer cuts.
The price of this traditional costume ranges from $7 to about $1,200 if it is handcrafted.
Indonesia chose the centuries-old kebaya as its national dress for women, after declaring its independence from the Netherlands in 1945.
Women in this region of Asia used to wear kebaya at weddings and formal occasions, and today it is back to be part of fashion in these countries.
