"Kuala Lumpur Mother’s Day Event To Highlight Nyonya Cuisine And Bespoke Kebaya Designs"

Mother’s Day Celebration in Kuala Lumpur to Showcase Nyonya Cuisine and Bespoke Kebaya Designs

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27, 2026 — A unique Mother’s Day event in Kuala Lumpur will blend Peranakan culinary heritage with the artistry of bespoke kebaya designs, organizers announced today. Titled “Nyonya Kaseh: Sulam & Santapan,” the celebration is curated by renowned Peranakan chef and cookbook author Debbie Teoh and will feature collaborations with Indonesian kebaya designers to offer made-to-order embroidered kebayas.

The event highlights the cultural significance of the kebaya, a traditional garment worn by Nyonya women, which was inscribed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2024. The recognition was achieved through a joint effort by Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, underscoring the kebaya’s regional importance as a symbol of elegance and heritage.

Peranakan Cuisine and Kebaya Craftsmanship

Debbie Teoh, known for her expertise in Nyonya cuisine, has designed a special Mother’s Day dinner featuring dishes beloved by Nyonya women but often reserved for special occasions. The menu reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Peranakan community, a cultural group with roots in the Malay Archipelago.

In addition to the culinary experience, the event will showcase bespoke kebayas crafted by Radjaart Kebaya, an Indonesian design house renowned for its intricate embroidery. Kebayas, traditionally paired with matching sarongs, are a hallmark of Nyonya fashion, often worn during social gatherings and celebrations. Radjaart Kebaya’s designs will be available for custom orders, allowing attendees to commission pieces tailored to their preferences.

Teoh, an avid collector of kebayas, owns 10 pieces from Radjaart Kebaya, each adorned with embroidery that reflects her personal interests, including motifs inspired by her cats. “For the Nyonyas, the kebaya and sarong are symbols of elegance and our rich heritage,” Teoh said, emphasizing the cultural pride associated with the garment.

UNESCO Recognition and Cultural Preservation

The kebaya’s inscription as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage in 2024 marked a significant milestone for the Peranakan community and the broader Southeast Asian region. The designation recognizes the kebaya’s role in fostering cultural identity and intergenerational transmission of traditional craftsmanship.

“Nyonya Kaseh: Sulam & Santapan” aims to celebrate this heritage by bringing together culinary and sartorial traditions in a single event. The collaboration with Radjaart Kebaya underscores the cross-border cultural ties that define Peranakan identity, blending Malaysian and Indonesian influences.

Event Details and Accessibility

The event is open to the public, offering an opportunity for attendees to experience Nyonya culture firsthand. While specific details about the dinner menu and kebaya designs have not been disclosed, organizers have emphasized the event’s focus on celebrating motherhood, heritage, and the artistry of Peranakan traditions.

For those unable to attend in person, Teoh’s social media platforms, including her Facebook page “Debbie Teoh’s World of Nyonya,” will provide updates and insights into the event’s offerings. The page has previously shared behind-the-scenes content, including the preparation of intricate Nyonya dishes and showcases of kebaya designs.

Broader Cultural Significance

The event arrives at a time of renewed interest in Peranakan culture, driven in part by UNESCO’s recognition of the kebaya. The garment’s intricate embroidery and elegant silhouettes have long been celebrated as a testament to the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of Nyonya women. By pairing culinary traditions with fashion, “Nyonya Kaseh: Sulam & Santapan” offers a holistic celebration of Peranakan identity.

As the event approaches, it serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of cultural heritage in contemporary society. For many, the kebaya is not merely a garment but a living symbol of history, resilience, and artistic expression.

Further details about the event, including ticketing information and participating vendors, are expected to be announced in the coming days. Interested attendees are encouraged to follow Debbie Teoh’s social media channels for updates.