Jakarta – The 2024 Paris Paralympics, set to commence on August 28, 2024, will showcase the hard work and determination of Indonesian Paralympians. As preparations continue, one of the key elements being finalized is the design of the costumes to be worn by the Indonesian contingent. While Didit Hediprasetyo designed the costumes for the 2024 Paris Olympics, this time, the responsibility has been passed to Didiet Maulana through his brand, IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana. The costumes are deeply inspired by the spirit of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity), a concept that serves as the strong foundation for these designs.
In collaboration with Mills, the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora), and the National Paralympic Committee of Indonesia (NPC), Didiet Maulana has presented a collection that includes jackets, jerseys, and track pants. The design focuses not only on aesthetics but also on embodying the values of unity and diversity, which are hallmarks of the Indonesian nation.
In a press release received on Monday, August 26, 2024, Didiet Maulana explained, “Sandya Niskala is a concept inspired by Indonesia as an archipelago with diverse cultures and strong, unshakable values of unity, beautifully encapsulated in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.”
The Philosophy Behind the Costume Design
The “Sandya Niskala” design series incorporates elements of traditional ikat weaving, representing the richness and diversity of Indonesian culture, in line with the vision of the brand founded by Didiet Maulana in 2011. The design also features geometric patterns resembling dynamic ocean waves, inspired by Indonesia’s identity as an archipelagic nation. According to Didiet, these motifs symbolize “the struggle and optimism of the athletes in competition.”
In keeping with the overarching concept, the design also draws inspiration from the Garuda Pancasila, the national emblem of Indonesia. The feather motif incorporated into the design reflects the philosophy of strength, unity, and the solidarity of the Indonesian nation. The placement of the motifs on the jackets, jerseys, and pants is carefully arranged to create a dynamic effect, reminiscent of the beak of the Garuda Pancasila.
The colors used in the costume design were also chosen with great care, each carrying deep meaning. The color scheme, inspired by the Garuda Pancasila, includes red, symbolizing courage; white, symbolizing purity; gold, symbolizing grandeur and glory; and touches of gray, symbolizing responsibility. “Through these colors, IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana aims to bring an energetic vibe, a sense of renewal, and good hopes for the Indonesian athletes who have fought hard in this competition,” Didiet said.
Celebrating Athletes Through an Exclusive Photo Session
To mark the launch of this collection, Didiet Maulana and his team held a photo session with Indonesian Paralympians who will be competing in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. The participating athletes included Ni Nengah Widiasih from Para Powerlifting, Leani Ratri Oktilla from Para Badminton, Suryo Nugroho from Para Badminton, M. Fadly Immamudin from Para Cycling, Jendi Pangabean from Para Swimming, and Teodora Audi Ayudia Ferelly from Para Archery. The photo session, themed “Embrace and Celebrating Our Athlete,” was aimed at celebrating the spirit and dedication of the athletes who will represent Indonesia on the international stage.
Didiet hopes that the “Sandya Niskala” collection will not only symbolize unity and diversity but also inspire and empower the athletes as they compete, embodying a sense of unity and upholding sportsmanship. “We invite everyone to join and witness the exclusive launch of this collection, which will soon be accessible through social media on Instagram @ikat_ind, @millssportid, @kemenpora, @npcindonesia, and the collection will be available for purchase through Mills coinciding with the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympic Games in Paris,” he added.
The Indonesian Olympic Costumes by Didit Hediprasetyo
For additional context, it’s worth noting that the costumes for the Indonesian contingent at the 2024 Paris Olympics were previously designed by Didit Hediprasetyo, who is also known as the son of Prabowo Subianto, the president-elect for the 2024-2029 period. These costumes were unveiled at an event at The Dharmawangsa Jakarta in July 2024, drawing inspiration from the national song “Berkibarlah Benderaku” (Fly My Flag). The jerseys featured the red and white colors of the Indonesian flag, complemented by the Garuda Pancasila emblem, reflecting national pride and the spirit of nationalism.
Thus, both Didiet Maulana and Didit Hediprasetyo have made significant contributions to designing costumes that are not only functional but also rich in meaning, carrying messages of pride and unity for Indonesia on the international stage. (A)