STEPPING THROUGH HERITAGE: SYMBOLISM AND MEANING OF BABA NYONYA BEADED SHOES (MELANGKAH MELALUI WARISAN: SIMBOLISME DAN MAKNA MANIK KASUT BABA NYONYA)

Abstract

Abstract 

The Baba Nyonya beaded shoes, or kasut manek, are more than decorative items; they are cultural symbols of the Peranakan Chinese community. Hand-sewn with colorful glass beads, these shoes reflect the fusion of Chinese, Malay, and European influences, showcasing the unique multicultural heritage of the Baba Nyonya. The intricate motifs, often featuring flowers, birds, or butterflies, carry deep meanings linked to femininity, prosperity, and tradition. Historically, kasut manek were worn during weddings and festivals, symbolizing elegance and social status. Their creation also served as a form of domestic education for Peranakan women, teaching them patience, artistry, and cultural values. This article examines the cultural significance of kasut manek through its historical context, artistic design, and its role in preserving identity. By examining visual elements, artisan interviews, and relevant literature, the study reveals how these shoes serve as vessels of cultural memory, transmitting Peranakan values across generations. Despite modern changes, the craft remains a living tradition, highlighting the enduring role of kasut manek as both an art form and a symbol of identity. Through this lens, the beaded shoes are celebrated not only for their beauty but also for their role in maintaining the legacy of the Baba Nyonya community. 

Keywords: Kasut Manek, Peranakan Chinese, Cultural Heritage, Symbolism, Traditional crasftman

Abstrak 

Kasut manek Baba Nyonya bukan sekadar hiasan semata-mata, tetapi merupakan simbol budaya yang penting bagi komuniti Peranakan Cina. Dijahit tangan dengan manik kaca berwarna-warni, kasut ini mencerminkan gabungan pengaruh Cina, Melayu, dan Eropah yang unik, serta memperlihatkan warisan budaya yang kaya. Motif-motif halus seperti bunga, burung, dan rama-rama membawa makna mendalam yang berkait rapat dengan kewanitaan, kemakmuran dan tradisi. Dahulu, kasut manek dipakai dalam majlis perkahwinan dan perayaan sebagai lambang keanggunan dan status sosial, malah proses pembuatannya menjadi sebahagian daripada pendidikan wanita Peranakan, mengajar mereka nilai seperti kesabaran, ketelitian dan seni halus. Kajian terhadap kasut manek melalui reka bentuk artistik, temu bual artisan dan literatur berkaitan menunjukkan bagaimana ia menjadi wadah memori budaya yang meneruskan nilai-nilai Peranakan merentasi generasi. Walaupun berdepan arus pemodenan, seni pembuatan kasut manek masih hidup dan kekal relevan sebagai lambang identiti serta warisan yang harus dihargai. 

Kata Kunci: Kasut Manek, Peranakan China, Warisan Budaya, Simbolik, Seni Tradisional