Kita Berkebaya: Empowering Women Through the Spirit of Kebaya

Kebaya is more than just traditional clothing, it's a living symbol of Indonesian heritage that continues to grow and evolve with time. In honor of National Kebaya Day on July 24, Bakti Budaya Djarum Foundation launched the Kita Berkebaya movement. This initiative reminds us that the Kebaya is not only a reflection of the past, but also a bold expression of identity, pride, and the spirit of Indonesian women today.

As part of the movement, a short film titled #KitaBerkebaya premiered on Indonesia Kaya’s YouTube channel on July 24, 2025. The film beautifully captures the deeper meaning of Kebaya. It shows Kebaya as a source of empowerment, not just as clothing nor nostalgic relic.

To further spread this message, Bakti Budaya Djarum Foundation, in collaboration with Narasi, held a Kita Berkebaya event in Posbloc Bandung. The event brought together powerful voices in a discussion on women’s empowerment through Kebaya, featuring singer Andien, Yanti Moeljono (Chair of the Kebaya Menari Community), and actress Tara Basro. The program also included heartfelt performances by Skeletale and Rahmania Astrini, celebrating culture through music and art.

Through honest and inspiring conversations, the speakers shared how the Kebaya is more than fashion—it is a statement of resilience, elegance, and individuality. It represents the strength of Indonesian women across generations and backgrounds.

Andien reflected on how the kebaya can be a grounding force in a woman’s journey of self-discovery:

“The kebaya isn’t just tradition, it’s a reminder of who we are, where we come from, and what we want to pass on. Culture isn’t about going backward, but about moving forward with purpose.”

Tara Basro, known for her fearless voice on identity and body positivity, emphasized the kebaya as a form of authentic self-expression:

“The kebaya teaches us to remember our roots, even in a fast-paced world. It’s not about looking traditional, it’s about finding meaning and making it our own.”

Kita Berkebaya movement envisions a future where kebaya is no longer reserved only for special occasions, but becomes part of everyday life. Women can wear Kebaya proudly in diverse and dynamic ways. From fashion designers and batik artisans to cloth sellers and tailors, the kebaya also supports creative industries across the archipelago.

More than just a cultural campaign, Kita Berkebaya is a reminder that tradition and modernity can walk hand in hand. It invites women to wear the kebaya not out of obligation, but out of love. It honors the past, empowers the present, and inspires a future where Indonesian women continue to express themselves with pride, authenticity, and cultural soul.