Celebrating the Kebaya
By Lillian Tong
July 2025 COVER STORY
INTRICATE EMBROIDERY SEWN on diaphanous Swiss voile and draped over the silhouette, the kebaya—traditionally worn by Nyonyas and Southeast Asian women—is the epitome of femininity and cultural pride. Worn daily as well as during traditional ceremonies and rites of passages such as weddings, celebrations, religious events and festivals, it also came in the early 20th century to symbolise women empowerment and nationhood.The kebaya is a long-sleeved blouse with a front opening. The lapel of the Nyonya kebaya runs to the...
Lillian Tong
is many times asked what will become of the Baba Nyonyas. Hopefully, the fate of the Straits Chinese community will not be like hers – she ended up in a museum.
