Kempinski Jakarta Pays Tribute to National Kebaya Day

Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta Pays Tribute to National Kebaya Day 

with “Warisan Busana Perempuan Nusantara” Exhibition

In celebration of National Kebaya Day, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta proudly presents “Warisan Busana Perempuan Nusantara,” a cultural exhibition honouring the enduring legacy of the kebaya as one of Indonesia’s most treasured symbols of heritage, femininity, and national identity.

Open to the public until 31 July 2026 at the hotel’s iconic Lobby, the exhibition invites guests to discover the timeless elegance and cultural significance of Indonesia’s traditional attire through a remarkable collection of historical and contemporary kebayas.

The Crowning Jewel: The Private Collection of Ibu Rahmi Hatta

At the heart of the exhibition is the remarkable Private Collection of Ibu Rahmi Hatta, the wife of Indonesia’s Proclaimer and First Vice President, Mohammad Hatta. Renowned for her humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the nation, Ibu Rahmi consistently chose to wear the kebaya throughout both her daily life and official state occasions. Her choice reflected more than personal style, it embodied dignity, patriotism, and a profound commitment to preserving Indonesia’s cultural identity.

Reflecting on the significance of the kebaya, Ibu Rahmi Hatta once shared:

“Kebaya bukan sekadar busana yang dikenakan. Ia adalah kisah yang diwariskan, martabat yang dijaga, dan identitas perempuan Indonesia yang terus hidup dari generasi ke generasi.”

Through this rare collection, visitors are invited to experience not only the timeless elegance of the kebaya, but also the values, history, and legacy it continues to carry across generations.

The exhibition also arrives at a historic moment for Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Following a landmark multinational nomination, the kebaya has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reaffirming its significance as a living tradition that transcends generations and national borders. As both a symbol of cultural continuity and evolving craftsmanship, the kebaya remains an enduring expression of Indonesian identity.

A Celebration of Timeless Elegance

At the centre of the hotel lobby, visitors are welcomed by an immersive installation featuring three distinguished kebaya ensembles framed by Indonesia’s vibrant tropical flora. The display brings together the timeless sophistication of a classic black Kebaya Kartini adorned with intricate gold floral embroidery, an elegant modern Baju Kurung crafted from black velvet with gold detailing, and a majestic golden velvet Kebaya Kutubaru paired with striking Coastal Batik.

Together, these ensembles celebrate the refinement, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty that have defined the kebaya across generations.

A Journey Through Colour, Craftsmanship and Cultural Expression

Complementing the main installation, the Lobby Cubicle presents five vibrant kebaya ensembles that reflect the remarkable diversity and evolution of Indonesian fashion. Featuring classic and contemporary interpretations of Kebaya Kartini and Kebaya Kutubaru in shades of dusty blue, navy, lime green, vibrant fuchsia, and golden brown, each ensemble is thoughtfully paired with distinctive batik textiles representing Indonesia’s rich textile traditions. Together, the collection illustrates how the kebaya continues to evolve while preserving the artistry, elegance, and cultural values passed down through generations.

Post Event

Aside from its collaboration with the Yayasan Meutia Hatta, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta proudly partnered with Anarav Label, Danar Hadi, and Jade Aesthetic Clinic to commemorate National Kebaya Day through a special cultural celebration held at the hotel. The programme featured “Ibu Semesta,” a captivating kebaya fashion show presented by Anarav Label and Danar Hadi, followed by the inspiring talk show “Wanita, Kebaya dan Nusantara.” Bringing together fashion, culture, and meaningful dialogue, the event celebrated the elegance of Indonesian women through the richness of the nation’s history, heritage, and future. More than a showcase of traditional attire, the celebration honoured the kebaya as a symbol of identity, resilience, and national pride. Through contemporary fashion presentations and insightful conversations, the event encouraged a deeper appreciation of Indonesia’s cultural heritage while inspiring younger generations to preserve and embrace the timeless beauty of the kebaya.

The event was proudly supported by Mustika Ratu and Young Yang Nest, with creative direction by Sapto Nugroho, whose vision brought together tradition and contemporary artistry in a celebration of Indonesia’s enduring cultural legacy.

“The kebaya is a timeless symbol of Indonesia’s cultural identity and elegance. Through this exhibition and the Private Collection of Ibu Rahmi Hatta, we are honoured to celebrate its enduring legacy while inviting our guests to experience the richness of Indonesia’s heritage,” said Petra Baumann, General Manager of Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta.

Through “Warisan Busana Perempuan Nusantara,” Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta reaffirms its commitment to preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage by creating meaningful experiences that connect history, artistry, and contemporary appreciation. The exhibition and its accompanying programmes invite guests, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of the kebaya while honouring the women who have shaped its enduring legacy.