A national symbol, and an emblem of beauty, elegance and heritage, the kebaya has a special place in Malaysian culture. But it isn't just us - it's also significant and meaningful to Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and Thailand, which is why all five countries have gone in together on a bid for the kebaya to be recognised as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. We discuss the value of these shared ties, and explore the history of the kebaya in our region. We also ask our listeners whether they love the kebaya too, and how it can be integrated into daily Malaysian life.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Produced by: Sharmilla Ganesan, Alia Zefri

Presented by: Lee Chwi Lynn, Sharmilla Ganesan

This and more than 60,000 other podcasts in your hand. Download the all new BFM mobile app.

Categories:  culture,  fashion

Tags:  kebaya,  cultural heritage,  unesco,