Malaysia Airlines showcases evolution of iconic ‘Sarong Kebaya’ uniforms onboard

National flag carrier commemorates 50 Years of Kuala Lumpur-London Flights with 'Heritage in the Skies' Campaign

Malaysia Airlines proudly presents a showcase of its iconic 'Sarong Kebaya' uniforms, highlighting their evolution since the debut in 1963, in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of its signature Kuala Lumpur-London route. As part of the 'Heritage in the Skies' campaign, this special showcase will feature cabin crew wearing six distinct Kebaya designs onboard selected flights from 3 to 16 November 2024.

Additionally, a special exhibit will be set up at KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 from 3 to 14 November 2024, allowing travellers and visitors to explore the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of all six Sarong Kebaya uniforms up close. Through both in-flight and on-ground activities, Malaysia Airlines invites everyone to immerse themselves in the cultural essence that has defined its service over the past five decades.

Lau Yin May, Group Chief Branding and Customer Experience Officer of Malaysia Aviation Group, said, “The 'Heritage in the Skies' campaign is more than a celebration of our 50 years of service to London. It’s a heartfelt tribute to our nation's spirit and an opportunity to honour the enduring legacy of Malaysian Hospitality. As we commemorate this milestone, we proudly embrace the unity and pride that define our nation. This campaign not only highlights our rich national identity and deep-rooted values but also underscores our commitment to exceptional service. We are thrilled to offer this exclusive experience to our passengers and look forward to the continued growth of our connection with London and beyond."

In 1963, Malaysia Airlines began a new journey with its cabin crew uniforms, beginning with a chilli red Sarong Kebaya featuring a traditional kutu baru bodice and nine pleats. Over the decades, these uniforms have reflected the airline’s growth and Malaysia’s rich heritage. The 1967 design introduced a striking earth-toned pattern, while the 1972 update incorporated batik motifs to mark a new era for the airline. By 1976, the uniform showcased green, blue, and yellow hues, celebrating Malaysia’s natural beauty. In 1986, the redesign combined traditional batik with Sarawakian kelarai defined as checkered weave patterns, a craftwork passed down through generations in Malay culture and Southeast Asia. In 1992, Italian fashion house Gherardini added local floral patterns to the design.

Today, the current kebaya is recognised as one of the world's most beautiful cabin crew uniforms. Updating the Gherardini reiteration from 1992 with deeper hues of pink and purple, this kebaya melds bamboo and kelarai motifs with local flowers – champak, jasmine and hibiscus. This infusion of traditional Malaysian flora and fauna with the art of batik creates a rich tableau that captures the essence of Malaysia. The uniform’s intricate floral designs, paired with batik elements, reflect Malaysia’s vibrant cultural tapestry while offering modern functionality. The deep colours, together with the delicate batik motifs, symbolise a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, allowing the cabin crew to embody the spirit of Malaysian Hospitality, art, and heritage with every flight.

Malaysia Airlines invites passengers to join in this milestone celebration by capturing and sharing their experience on social media. As part of this vibrant tribute to its heritage and the timeless charm of Malaysian culture, the airline looks forward to creating unforgettable journeys and deeper connections. Passengers on board and guests visiting the exhibit at KLIA Terminal 1 can participate in this nostalgic journey by capturing photos with the crew and entering an exclusive social media contest. To enhance this memorable experience, the airline will provide limited instax photo prints, courtesy of Fujifilm, as keepsakes for passengers on selected flights. Passengers are also encouraged to take photos using their personal devices. To participate in the contest, travellers simply post their photo on social media, tagging Malaysia Airlines with the hashtags #malaysiaairlines and #heritageintheskies. The most creative submission will win two return tickets between Kuala Lumpur and London, offering an unforgettable experience to the lucky winners.

Visit the official Malaysia Airlines website at www.malaysiaairlines.com for more information and to book your flights. Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates on our ‘Heritage in the Skies’ campaign.