The nyonya kebaya : understanding its characteristics and social significance

Abstract

The Peranakan Chinese or Straits-born Chinese people was borne out of a time when Chinese immigration to the Malaysian archipelago took place, resulting in inter- marriages, thus giving birth to a distinct culture and language. When taken apart, nothing is new, and you can trace words or certain foods to be either Malay or Chinese (Hokkien) in origin, however it is the blend of both that has created something unique. Today, Peranakan food, architecture and clothing have their own style which is instantly recognisable. This paper will portray the story of the Peranakans through the nonya’s clothing, also known as the nyonya kebaya. This thesis aims to impart the sense of culture, tradition and pride in the Peranakan culture. Westernization or modernization and political environment meant the different aspects that were uniquely Peranakan had started to disappear and in some ways devalued. A key component of Peranakan culture is their artistic heritage expressed through various mediums such as clothing and embroidery work, both of which are declining in trade and skill. Through research, surveys and interviews, tangible and intangible values are determined as well as reveal key character defining elements of the nyonya kebaya. It is with hope that identifying these would result in less resistance to change and for the kebaya to be able to evolve naturally and continue to be an important part of Peranakan heritage.