Tan’s collection of traditional outfits with multicultural elements.
Nicole Tan Lee Koon, who is Negri Sembilan tourism, arts and culture committee chairman, cuts a graceful figure in a baju kebaya.
Frequently dressed in baju kebaya and baju kurung in classic colours and patterns, especially when attending official events, the 53-year-old could very well be considered a “roving ambassador” for traditional Malay attire, especially for garments of Negri Sembilan heritage.
She is a huge fan of traditional Malay attire and it has become an integral part of her identity.
Videos of Tan wearing Kebaya Setengah Tiang at official state events have often gone viral on social media, drawing the attention of netizens, with some expressing interest in the garments she wore.
“Even among family, I rarely wear cheongsam, even though it is a traditional Chinese attire.
“I often say that the Kebaya Setengah Tiang (a traditional outfit of Negri Sembilan) is a Malaysian garment that can be worn by people of all races.
“I have many baju kurung and baju kebaya in my wardrobe, and I feel more comfortable in those outfits.
“I even have three personal tailors who know my measurements and preferences,” she told Bernama.
Tan believes that leaders have a responsibility to set an example in upholding their state’s identity and heritage, which also helps promote Malaysia’s identity on the global stage.
A native of Seremban, Tan said she incorporated elements of other cultures into her outfits to represent the characteristics of Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“For example, my Kebaya Setengah Tiang or baju kurung may be tailored with sari fabric or use red or yellow colours along with cheongsam buttons to reflect my Chinese heritage,” she said, adding that she owns dozens of traditional garments.
Tan said that wearing Malay traditional attire, especially those of Negri Sembilan heritage, was also part of promoting the cultural identity of the state that observes Adat Perpatih custom.
The Kepayang assemblyman believes that leaders have a responsibility to set an example in upholding their state’s identity and heritage, which also helps promote Malaysia’s identity on the global stage.
“I want to cultivate this identity. It is not enough to just talk about its importance; it has to be worn and displayed.
“Let people ask what we are wearing and we can tell them: ‘This is Kebaya Setengah Tiang, this is bunga lado’, both of which are associated with Negri Sembilan,” she said.
Tailor Nancy Chew See Khon, 60, said she had been tailoring outfits for Tan for eight years, even before the latter became an elected representative.
“I have known Tan for a long time, so I know exactly what she likes, her designs and measurements. If she says she needs something quickly, I do my best to finish it quickly.
“Other Chinese clients ask me to make baju kurung for them too. I don’t refer to any specific fashion styles, I make them based on experience,” said Chew.
The veteran tailor with over 40 years’ experience, said other state leaders had also placed orders with her before.
Negri Sembilan Traditional Attire Enthusiasts Association chairman Alias Zakaria said Tan was one of the elected representatives who frequently showcased garments that reflected Malaysia’s identity, thereby encouraging others to wear them as well.
“Tan has even consulted me regarding the Kebaya Setengah Tiang she wanted made.
“She always wears kebaya, whether modern or berpesak (traditional), at official events and she has a large collection. Even her staff follow suit by wearing baju kurung.
“It is wonderful when the staff emulate her dressing, as it creates a positive influence. This, in turn, impacts the wider community.
“The public, especially the younger generation, will grow to love traditional attire.
“At the same time, we can preserve these outfits,” said Alias.
