In Indonesia, the spirit of Kartini, an emblematic figure of women’s empowerment and education, is celebrated every year. Modern Indonesian women continue to embody her values, pushing boundaries and breaking glass ceilings in various fields. D’Muse Magazine has featured several influential Indonesian women on its cover, highlighting their achievements and contributions as modern-day Kartini.
Here are the prominent women who have graced the cover and are poised as inspirations for others across the nation:
Kartini of Women’s Rights Advocate: Cinta Laura Kiehl
Cinta Laura, an actress and singer, has made significant strides both locally and internationally. Beyond her entertainment career, Cinta is known for her academic prowess and her work in social issues, including education and women’s rights. Her ability to juggle multiple domains successfully makes her a role model for young women striving for versatility and impact.
Kartini of Mental Health and Animal Rights: Manohara Odelia Pinot
Despite facing personal adversities that gained public attention, Manohara Odelia Pinot emerged as a strong advocate for women’s rights and mental health. Her courage in addressing sensitive issues and her commitment to social activism highlight her as a modern Kartini, encouraging resilience and advocacy among her followers.
Kartini of Health and Wellness Advocate: Jennifer Bachdim
Known for her fitness enthusiasm and as a lifestyle influencer, Jennifer Bachdim inspires women to prioritize their health and well-being. Her approachable content on wellness and family life encourages Indonesian women to maintain balance while pursuing their personal and professional goals.
Kartini of Resilience and Parenting Influencer: Nia Ramadhani
Nia Ramadhani, a celebrated actress and television host, has been in the spotlight since her early teens and has grown into a symbol of modern motherhood and entrepreneurship in Indonesia. Beyond her acting career, Nia has ventured into business, leveraging her platform to promote fashion and lifestyle brands. Her journey from a teen actress to a successful businesswoman and dedicated mother offers a powerful narrative about balancing personal aspirations with family life.
Kartini of Philanthropy and Motherhood: Nikita Willy
Starting her career in entertainment at a very young age, Nikita Willy quickly became a household name in Indonesia through her roles in numerous soap operas and films. Nikita’s transition into a savvy businesswoman, running her own beauty brand, showcases her multifaceted talents and her commitment to empowering women to feel confident and beautiful. Her philanthropic efforts, particularly towards children’s education and welfare, echo Kartini’s ideals of enlightenment and societal improvement.
Kartini of Gender Equality and Progressive Youth: Shenina Cinnamon
Shenina Cinnamon, a young and vibrant actress, represents the new wave of Indonesian talent in the film industry. Known for her roles that often challenge traditional norms, Shenina uses her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and gender equality. Her choice of roles and public presence embody the progressive spirit of the youth, making her an icon for young women who aspire to break stereotypes and make meaningful changes in society.
These women, through their diverse careers and impactful lives, continue to inspire a new generation of Indonesians. They reflect the spirit of Kartini by demonstrating that women’s roles in society are not confined to traditional paths but are expansive and dynamic. By showcasing these figures, D-Muse Magazine not only highlights their individual successes but also the broader potential of Indonesian women to lead, inspire, and revolutionize their respective fields.
In Southeast Asia, the kebaya stands as a symbol of fashion, heritage, and national pride, deeply rooted in Indonesian culture. This traditional garment, though originating from Indonesia, has found its unique expressions across Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, and southern Thailand, with each stitch narrating its own historical saga.
Tracing Back Kebaya’s History – or, Her Story?
Historically, the kebaya is believed to trace its origins back to the Middle East, specifically from the Turkic “qaba,” a term derived from the Persian for a “robe of honor.” This style of open-fronted garment was already in use by Javanese royals and elites by the time the Portuguese arrived in Java in 1512, as detailed by fashion historians Linda Welters and Abby Lillethun in “Fashion History: A Global View.” The term “kebaya” itself evolved from the Portuguese “caba” or “cabaya,” meaning “tunic.”
Traditionally, the kebaya referred to robes or blouses for both genders, but by the 19th Century, it had become exclusively associated with a women’s blouse paired with a batik sarong in Southeast Asia. This combination gained popularity among Dutch women in the Dutch East Indies and was embraced by Muslim women seeking a modest dress code.
The kebaya evolved through the ages, adapting to the tropical climate with various styles like the kebaya panjang, a knee-length blouse worn with brooches, and other well-known versions like the kebaya kartini, favored by Javanese nobility; the kebaya kutabaru, with a material underneath resembling a kemben; and the vibrant, embroidered kebaya nyonya.
Kebaya Evolution to Today’s Fashion Landscape
Across Southeast Asia, the kebaya has been adapted by local artisans. In Bali, women fasten their kebaya with a colorful sash, while in Java, a white kebaya edged with European lace remains popular, a style introduced during the colonial era. Meanwhile, in Brunei, the kebaya often features luxurious songket fabric woven with gold threads, reflecting local tastes and traditions.
Moreover, the kebaya symbolized resistance and pride during significant historical moments, such as World War II, when Javanese women in internment camps wore the kebaya as a sign of rebellion. In 1945, it was declared Indonesia’s national dress, and by the mid-20th century, it had become the chosen uniform for the female crew of several Southeast Asian airlines, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Today, the kebaya is celebrated both as everyday attire and festive wear. It can be seen at special events such as Peranakan weddings in Penang or casually worn by women in Bali. Particularly on Kartini Day, celebrated every 21st of April in Indonesia to honor women’s empowerment, the kebaya is proudly worn, symbolizing not just a rich history but also its perpetual relevance in the modern cultural tapestry of Southeast Asia.
