Maria (middle) with the lucky winners of the night featuring the Kebaya outfit
KOTA KINABALU: The uniqueness of Kebaya clothing deserves to be widely highlighted because it has unique features that attract foreign tourists said the Minister of Community Development and People’s Well-being (KPMKR), Datuk James Bin Ratib.
Not only that, he said, Kebaya should be widely highlighted because it is able to generate a good income for traders and also at the same time generate the economy of those involved in this field.
“The rapid development of the country’s fashion nowadays sometimes causes the community, especially the younger generation, to forget about traditional clothing such as the kebaya which should be a symbol of pride and splendor in itself.
“Kebaya is a design that is timeless because its design can be injected with various modern elements making this fashion have a high aesthetic value, not to mention that it is a national heritage and young people need to appreciate this heritage.
“Kebaya should not only be worn when attending public events, but it is a traditional dress that has its own heritage value and uniqueness,” he said.
James added that the State Government always supports noble efforts like this in displaying Malaysian culture and heritage to future generations, therefore, it should be proud of and defended.
“Regarding that, it is hoped that continuous efforts will be made by various parties from time to time including the National Consumer Action Council (MTPN) in preserving this treasure.
“What is most important is that we do not want young people to forget traditional clothing which is part of the local cultural heritage of our own society,” he said.
James who is also the Sugut Assemblyman said this while inaugurating the Program Pengguna – Miss Kebaya Nusantara MTPN Sabah 2023 which was held at the JKKN Sabah Complex Auditorium on Saturday night.
The text of his inauguration speech was read by KPMKR Deputy Permanent Secretary, Maria David.
He expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Organizing Committee for successfully organizing the event which will surely have an impact on the fashion industry, especially Kebaya.
“I very much welcome the initiative of MTPN led by its President Kevin Lo Kian Min in his efforts to contribute and help the economy, tourism, culture and arts sectors especially in Sabah through programs such as this one.
“Miss Kebaya Nusantara MTPN Sabah 2023 is not only a medium to promote and elevate kebaya to the international stage, it is even a platform to introduce this traditional fashion to the younger generation so that this heritage treasure can continue to be preserved.
“MTPN’s effort to organize Miss Kebaya Nusantara tonight is an example of how we can preserve and educate the community about the origins of our culture,” he said.
James hopes that the organization of the said program will not only showcase fashion, especially Kebaya, but become a platform to celebrate heritage and culture, thereby giving a lasting impact to the industry.