Indonesia Kaya Presents Padel Berkebaya, Celebrating Kebaya in the Active Lifestyle of the Younger Generation

The kebaya is a symbol of cultural heritage that continues to live and evolve with the times. Indonesia Kaya consistently supports the preservation of the kebaya as an intangible cultural heritage that continues to evolve thru the Kita Berkebaya movement launched since last year. Kita Berkebaya invites the community, especially young women, to interpret the kebaya not merely as a traditional garment or a symbol of nostalgia, but as an embodiment of attitude, self-expression, and a part of a dynamic identity that is relevant to contemporary lifestyles.

Continuing that spirit, Indonesia Kaya today presents Padel Berkebaya at Bounce, Jakarta. This event becomes a unique meeting space, where the kebaya, as a wealth of Indonesian culture, meets the spirit of an active lifestyle and the sport of padel. Here, the kebaya is not just worn, but brought to life thru movement, laughter, and the energy of togetherness.

Padel Berkebaya presents a new way to celebrate the nation's heritage that is not limited to ceremonies, but is present in daily life, in dynamic and expressive spaces. Thru this initiative, the kebaya continues to be celebrated as a living, growing, and relevant cultural heritage for the current generation.

"Through Padel Berkebaya, we want to show that kebaya can be present in spaces close to the lives of the younger generation, not just at formal events, but also in active and enjoyable activities." We hope that more and more young people feel familiar and confident wearing kebaya in various activities. As kebaya is used more frequently, its ecosystem also moves: artisans, designers, SMEs, and creative economy actors. In the end, the kebaya not only lives on as a cultural heritage but also becomes part of the ever-turning economic wheel, benefiting many people," said Renitasari Adrian, Program Director of Indonesia Kaya.

Held as a gathering and entertainment event, Padel Berkebaya becomes a form of grounded cultural advocacy, presenting the kebaya thru body movement, energy, and social interaction. In the dynamic sports arena, the kebaya is not just worn, but lived as part of the active, confident, and authentic lifestyle of modern women.

This event was attended by various public figures with active lifestyles who also love kebaya, including Ririn Ekawati, Anastasia Siantar, Ola Harika, Noi Aswari, and Kushandari Arfanidewi (Kelinci Tertidur), as well as other padel enthusiasts. For participants who are not yet familiar with this sport, Padel Berkebaya also features a coaching clinic session that introduces the basics of playing padel, ensuring that this experience can be enjoyed inclusively by all participants.

"Honestly, at first I couldn't imagine wearing a kebaya while playing padel. But today I experienced it myself and it turns out a kebaya can look sporty, comfortable, and still beautiful." As a padel enthusiast, this experience feels very special. I feel that the kebaya has become closer to everyday life, not just for formal events. For me, this is a beautiful message for the younger generation: we can love culture in our own way, without losing style and character. "If the kebaya can be present on the padel court, it means the kebaya is indeed alive and ready to walk with the times," said Ririn Ekawati, an Indonesian public figure known for her various roles on screen.

Padel Berkebaya also features a kebaya market selling kebayas and their supporting accessories. To complement the atmosphere, Padel Berkebaya also presents musical entertainment from DJ Ninda and DJ Neysa, creating a fluid atmosphere and celebrating togetherness. The presence of music, sports, and kebaya in the same space symbolizes how culture can continue to thrive amidst daily life, without losing its relevance or appeal.

"We hope Padel Berkebaya can inspire more women to see the kebaya as part of their daily lives." Not because of cultural obligation, but because of a sense of belonging. Because when women move in kebaya, that's where culture truly comes alive," concluded Renitasari.