Which baju kurung style was created in Singapore in the 19th century, diffused to Malaysia, and has come to be known as the characteristic attire of the Malay people? Hint: It’s named after an area in Singapore.

baju kurung Redhill?
baju kurung Compassvale?
baju kurung Holland Village?

A story in the New Straits Times tipped me off to this – the baju kurung Teluk Belanga was named after (yes, you guessed it) our very own Telok Blangah.

This costume has its origins in Teluk Belanga, Singapore, and was created and worn in Johor during the reign of Temenggong Abu Bakar Sri Maharaja. His Royal Highness was then residing in Teluk Belanga, Singapore when he succeeded to the throne. During his reign, the popularity of this style of dressing flourished and in 1862, it was referred to as baju kurung Teluk Belanga.

In 1866, Temenggong Abu Bakar Sri Maharaja took the title of Sultan Abu Bakar and developed Tanjung Puteri, the land now known as Johor Baru. Today, the baju kurung Teluk Belanga continues to be widely worn in his honour.

In fact, the article goes on to say that the baju kurung Teluk Belanga‘s style was so characteristic of the Malay community that it became known simply as the baju Melayu.

Read the story of the baju kurung Teluk Belanga, it’s history and development here.