4 min read
If you’ve recently watched the popular Emerald Hill drama series on Netflix, you may have noticed how Peranakan culture plays a central role—through beautifully decorated homes, elaborate feasts, and, most notably, the fashion. The intricate kebayas and vibrant batik sarongs worn by the characters are not just visually striking; they are symbols of a living heritage, passed down through generations.
Nonya sarong kebayas worn by the characters in the Netflix series Emerald Hill, displayed at the Peranakan Museum. Photo Credit: The Singapore Women's Weekly
In many Peranakan households, the kebaya is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a cherished heirloom, carefully stored away or displayed with pride. Whether it’s a newly made garment or one that has aged gracefully over time, the kebaya carries with it stories of family, tradition, and the cultural values passed down through generations.
Each bead, stitch, and embroidery detail carries with it the skill, care, and cultural significance passed down through generations. When paired with a batik sarong, the kebaya becomes the hallmark of the Nonya look—elegant, timeless, and full of meaning. These garments are not merely worn for special occasions; they are a testament to Peranakan identity, weaving together the personal and the cultural in every thread.
Kebaya and Batik Through Time
The history of the kebaya is as intricate as the fabrics used to make them. Thought to have originated in the Middle East, the word "kebaya" is believed to come from the Arabic "abaya," meaning robe. Over time, the kebaya journeyed through the Malay Archipelago, evolving through trade, colonisation, and cultural exchange. In particular, Peranakan women in Malacca, Penang, and Singapore transformed the kebaya into something distinctly their own, adding detailed sulam (embroidery), delicate French lace, and vibrant colours inspired by the lush tropical landscapes around them.
Late 19th to early 20th century kebaya with French lace detailing. Photo Credit: Roots.sg, collection of the Peranakan Museum.
Detailed sulam (embroidery), from Shermay's kebaya collection.
Batik, meanwhile, is an art form steeped in history and rich in symbolism. While it has its roots in Javanese culture, the Peranakans embraced batik with their own flair. They chose bold colours and motifs that complemented their cultural identity. Together, the kebaya and batik sarong became more than just an attire; they became a powerful expression of Peranakan identity.
Shermay's batik collection, featuring distinctive motifs rooted in Peranakan identity.
Reconnecting with Our Peranakan Heritage
For many younger Peranakans, reconnecting with Peranakan heritage often starts with food, family stories, or a photo album. However, fashion, especially the kebaya and batik, offers a powerful way to reconnect with the past. Understanding the craftsmanship behind these garments, and the symbolism embedded in batik motifs, can foster a deeper sense of connection to the Peranakan culture.
A great place to start exploring this heritage is the Peranakan Museum. At the Peranakan Museum, visitors can view exquisite kebayas, batik sarongs, and heirloom accessories. From delicate beadwork to intricately painted porcelain, every exhibit feels intimate, like stepping into a family archive. Whether you are reconnecting with your own roots or discovering Peranakan heritage for the first time, the museum reminds us that these traditions are not just in the past—they are alive and waiting to be rediscovered and shared.
Traditional Nonya sarong kebayas and Peranakan jewellery on exhibit at the Peranakan museum. Photo Credit: Peranakan Museum
A Revival of Peranakan Fashion
While the kebaya and batik have deep historical roots, their significance goes beyond the past. These garments are more than cultural artifacts—they are living traditions, passed down through generations. The most meaningful moments often happen in quiet exchanges, when a grandmother teaches her granddaughter how to tie a sarong or when a mother and daughter choose fabrics for a new piece. These intimate acts remind us that heritage is not something we simply admire—it is something we live, wear, and share.
Through every stitch, bead, and design, the tradition of the kebaya and batik continues to thrive, connecting the past with the present. The rich history of these garments is a testament to how culture is both preserved and actively carried forward, one generation at a time.
