Oslo Kebaya emblem: a woman in a Peranakan kebaya beside the Oslo Opera House, framed by orchids

Every kebaya tells a story.
Every story brings us together.

Celebrating heritage · Connecting people

Oslo Kebaya Night 17 Oct 2026

What is a kebaya?

More than a beautiful garment — a living tradition.

The kebaya reflects centuries of history, craftsmanship and cultural exchange throughout Southeast Asia. For generations, women have worn it in many beautiful forms — and over time it has become an important part of the cultural identity of many communities, including Malay, Peranakan, Javanese and Eurasian.

Each region has developed its own distinctive styles, fabrics, embroidery techniques and ways of wearing it. More than clothing, the kebaya represents knowledge, creativity and craftsmanship passed from one generation to the next.

UNESCO · 2024

“Kebaya: Knowledge, Skills, Traditions and Practices” was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity — through a joint nomination by five nations.

  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • Thailand

The visual identity of Oslo Kebaya is inspired by the timeless elegance of the Peranakan kebaya — its delicate floral embroidery and refined beauty. While our design draws on Peranakan heritage, we celebrate the diversity of the many kebaya styles cherished today.

Why we celebrate

Norway

Bunad

Treasured as an important symbol of Norwegian heritage, worn with pride on the days that matter most.

Two traditions.
The same respect.

Southeast Asia

Kebaya

Cherished across five nations as a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship and identity.

Culture has a unique way of bringing people together. By sharing our traditions with one another, we create opportunities to learn, build friendships and celebrate the richness of our diverse cultural heritage.

About Oslo Kebaya

It began with one evening, and an invitation.

It began with one woman in Norway who had admired the Peranakan kebaya since she was a little girl. She invited a small group of women to come together for one evening to celebrate its beauty, heritage and the friendships it could inspire. How Oslo Kebaya began

Our story

Growing up, I was always fascinated by traditional clothing and the stories they carry. Living in Norway, I have come to admire the bunad as a beautiful expression of Norwegian heritage. In the same way, one garment has captured my heart since I was a little girl — the Peranakan kebaya.

Oslo Kebaya was created from that admiration. It is not intended to represent every aspect of Southeast Asian culture, or to speak on behalf of any one community. It is a heartfelt invitation to learn, appreciate and celebrate the kebaya with respect, curiosity and friendship.

Lily Urholt — Founder, Oslo Kebaya

Our vision

To celebrate and share the kebaya as a living cultural heritage — fostering understanding, appreciation and meaningful friendships through culture, education and community.

Our mission

To celebrate, preserve and promote the kebaya while creating opportunities for women of all backgrounds to learn, connect and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Asia — through cultural gatherings, storytelling and community collaborations.

Our inaugural gathering

Oslo Kebaya Night

17 October 2026·Oslo

An evening celebrating the beauty, heritage and craftsmanship of the kebaya — and bringing women together through culture, friendship and shared experiences. We hope it will become a cherished cultural tradition in Norway.

Cultural presentations

Stories of the kebaya across the region, and the hands that make it.

Guest speakers

Voices on heritage, craftsmanship and cultural exchange.

Heritage showcase

A Kebaya Heritage Showcase of styles, fabrics and embroidery traditions.

Southeast Asian cuisine

Traditional dishes shared around one table, and conversations that matter.

Register your interest

Contact

Come and celebrate with us.

Whether you would like to attend an event, collaborate, volunteer, or simply learn more about Oslo Kebaya — we would be delighted to hear from you.

info@kebayaoslo.com

Oslo Kebaya is a non-profit cultural initiative based in Norway.
Women of all backgrounds are warmly welcome.