Threads of Tradition and Modernity - Unraveling the Visual Tapestry of Baju Kurung Through the Eyes of Women

Sep 5, 2026

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Exploring the relationship between baju kurung and modern Malay culture through fashion, this study maps how tradition and contemporaneity intersect in women’s visual perceptions. Three experienced fashion designers contribute to clarify the garment’s visual and cultural intricacies, while preferences of eight women are examined. A qualitative semi-structured approach with in-depth interviews in a focus group of women from the Klang Valley supports the analysis. Four themes—price, materials, design, and purpose—expose how practical needs and subjective aesthetics shape acceptance of traditional attire.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryPresentations

FormatPDF

Pages14

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Introduction

Background on Baju Kurung

Literature Review

History of the Baju Kurung

Threads of Tradition and Modernity: Unraveling the Visual Tapestry of Baju Kurung Through the Eyes of Women Azra Alyssa Azizu Azriel Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia E-mail: azraalyssa21@gmail,com Mohd Yusof Zulkefli* * Corresponding author, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia [E-mail:](E-mail: yusofzulkefli@uitm.edu.my)[ ](E-mail: yusofzulkefli@uitm.edu.my)[yusofzulkefli@uitm.edu.my](E-mail: yusofzulkefli@uitm.edu.my) Noor Ameerah Atikah Muhammad Azizi Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia [E-mail:](E-mail: noorameerahatikah@gmail.com)[ ](E-mail: noorameerahatikah@gmail.com)[noorameerahatikah@gmail.com](E-mail: noorameerahatikah@gmail.com) Article Info Article history: Received: 6 November, 2023 Accepted: 15 December, 2023 Published: 1 July, 2024 DOI: 10.33102/jcicom.vol4no1.94 Nurashikin Zulkafli Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia [E-mail:](E-mail: nurashikin.zulkafli@gmail.com)[ ](E-mail: nurashikin.zulkafli@gmail.com)[nurashikin.zulkafli@gmail.com](E-mail: nurashikin.zulkafli@gmail.com) Nurul Zalikha Sharifuddin Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia [E-mail:](E-mail: zalikhasharifuddin02@gmal.com)[ ](E-mail: zalikhasharifuddin02@gmal.com)[zalikhasharifuddin02@gmal.com](E-mail: zalikhasharifuddin02@gmal.com) ABSTRACT Embarking on exploring the dynamic relationship between the baju kurung and modern Malay culture within fashion, this study intricately navigates the intersection of tradition and contemporaneity. Seeking a profound understanding, the research incorporates the discerning perspectives of three accomplished fashion designers, each contributing expertise to illuminate the intricacies of women's views on the baju kurung. The overarching goal is to uncover the delicate preferences of eight women, unravelling the threads that intricately weave this timeless garment into the cultural fabric of the Malay community. Utilising a qualitative research method renowned for its depth, a semi-structured approach is employed, conducting insightful, in-depth interviews within a focus group comprising women from the Klang Valley immersed in the fashion industry. Findings reveal four central themes—price, materials, design, and purpose—that vividly depict the visual communication perspective on traditional and modernised baju kurung. This comprehensive exploration shows that preferences for this traditional Malay attire are shaped by myriad factors, from pragmatic considerations to subjective aesthetic choices. This research unfolds a rich tapestry of motivations, providing a captivating glimpse into the intricate world of baju kurung and its dynamic role in the evolution of Malay culture. Keywords: Visual Communication, Perception, Baju Kurung, Traditional and Modern INTRODUCTION Baju Kurung is one of the most significant traditional clothing items in Malay culture. According to Siti Zainon Ismail (2006), traditional Malay clothing is a part of the community's customs and traditions to fulfil the life that embodies the Malay culture's values, norms and beauty. Hence, it explains why the baju kurung is important to Malay Culture. "Baju" is a body-covering fabric. Kurung, in English, means to confine. In this context, "kurung" holds the meaning of modesty. According to Hassan (2016), from the viewpoint of the Malay, modesty in baju kurung is connected with Islamic teachings that prohibit showing off someone's particular body parts, especially when a woman is not at home. In addition, Sultan Mansur Shah restricted Muslim women from dressing in anything except a "sarong" from the bust downwards during the Sultanate of Melaka. This comprehensive research study delves into the intricate world of fashion, specifically focu

FAQs

What is the main focus of the study about baju kurung?

The study examines how baju kurung relates to modern Malay culture through fashion and how women perceive the garment’s visual meaning across tradition and contemporaneity.

How was the research conducted?

A qualitative research design using semi-structured, in-depth interviews was carried out with a focus group of women from the Klang Valley, supported by perspectives from fashion designers.

What themes were identified in the findings?

Four central themes were identified: price, materials, design, and purpose, explaining how both practical factors and subjective aesthetic choices shape women’s preferences.

Sep 5, 2026

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