Unless you’ve gone out of your way to do your own little research or have written a thesis paper related to this piece of historical garment, it’s most likely that you would think that there’s only one type of baju kurung you can find in Malaysia. It’s okay, we don’t blame you. It’s not common to find someone well-versed in the realm of just one specific traditional clothing. Let’s see if you’ve heard any of these before now!
Source: genemartino.com.my
While there are distinct elements to each type, two crucial components remain present in all of the baju kurungs in Malaysia till this day. The baju (blouse) is accompanied by a sarong (skirt) that complements each other to form a culturally beautiful dress. Traditionally, the women in Malaysia wear their baju kurung with a kain dagang (veil) for the purpose of shielding themselves from the sun.
In a country blessed with diverse culture and tradition, it’s no shocker that there are different variations of baju kurungs in Malaysia. The five most popular types of baju kurungs we have in Malaysia is the Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga, Baju Kurung Cekak Musang, Baju Kurung Kedah, Baju Kurung Pahang, and last but not least, the Baju Kurung Moden. The teluk belanga and cekak musang styles are also popular styles for men with their Baju Melayus.
Despite having one of the states in Malaysia in its name, the Baju Kurung Kedah is believed to have originated from southern Thailand. The blouse has a short and boxy cut with ¾ length sleeves that is paired with a simple batik cloth. The Baju Kurung Pahang carries a resemblance to the Baju Kurung Cekak Musang with its raised collar. With its long flared blouse and fitted sarong, this variation of baju kurung is definitely a popular choice among Malaysian women.
Now, yes, the Baju Kurung Moden is no news. Still, it must be mentioned here as it has seen its popularity soar in Malaysia. The Baju Kurung Moden brings out the natural curves of the woman’s body with its defined waist fit and mermaid cut sarong.
Besides the aforementioned baju kurungs, you can also find the Baju Kurung Pahang, Baju Kurung pesak, and more in Malaysia. You can even find further variations within a particular type of baju kurung! For example, the Baju Kurung Pesak comes in two styles, which is the Baju Kurung Pesak
Gantung and Baju Kurung Pesak Buluh. Isn’t Malaysia just abundantly rich with baju kurungs? The more you know.