Proud of Culture, Graceful in Kebaya

Indonesian women in foreign lands
Today she stands gracefully,
In kebaya amid the summer breeze.
Far from her birthplace,
Yet her love for Indonesia never fades.

Celebrating Kebaya in Ottoman Land

On Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Indonesian Community of Istanbul (MII) organized a cultural event titled “Istanbul in Kebaya” at Gülhane Park, Istanbul. This event was held to commemorate National Kebaya Day which falls on July 24, while also serving as a gathering for the Indonesian community in Istanbul, and as an opening for the series of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebrations to be held next August.

More than 200 participants attended to enliven this event, consisting of Migrant Workers, Students, Indonesian-Foreign couples (brides & grooms), children, and Turkish families. A warm and united atmosphere was felt from the beginning of the event.

The event began with speeches from:

  • MII Chairwoman, Mrs. Sari
  • Independence Day Committee Chairwoman, Mrs. Aulia
  • Representative of Indonesian Consulate General Istanbul, Mr. Hardianto (Social and Cultural Officer)

Dressed Up, Cultured

The activity continued with a Kebaya Fashion Show by the participants. They appeared graceful and confident presenting their best kebaya from various regions: traditional kebaya from Jakarta, Java, Bali, and others.

Applause, cheers from the audience, and cameras that never stopped taking pictures added to the excitement of the event.

The jury panel consisting of:

  • Mrs. Witta (Secretary of DWP Istanbul)
  • Mrs. Farida Baderun
  • Ms. Arsy (PPI Istanbul)

…judged with full enthusiasm. Seven best participants were selected to receive awards.

Kebaya, Joy, and Love for the Homeland

After the photo and video recording session for Kebaya Day greetings, the event continued with fun games. Despite the quite hot summer weather, participants remained enthusiastic and laughed cheerfully while participating in the games held.

The event concluded with the announcement of the best kebaya winners and games, as well as prize distribution.

Thank You for All the Support

The success of this event was inseparable from:

  • Support from Indonesian Consul General Istanbul, Mr. Darianto Harsono, who also presented appreciation certificates to all participants and committee members
  • Main sponsor: PT Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur Tbk
  • Prize sponsors: Mrs. Fardal Yılmaz, Mrs. Hj. Diana Ismi & Mrs. Ayu (Aisyah Travel)
  • The committee thanks:

Student team from PPI Istanbul

  • Barudak Turki Community
  • Indonesian Brides
  • All layers of society
  • Jury panel, sponsors, and all participants who attended and contributed.

See You at the Next Event!

The spirit of wearing kebaya in foreign lands proves that Indonesian identity and culture remain alive wherever we are.