Jakarta – The 2024 Paris Paralympics, which is scheduled to begin on August 28, 2024, will be a platform to showcase the determination and hard work of Indonesian Paralympians. As preparations are underway, one of the crucial aspects being finalized is the design of the costumes that will be worn by the Indonesian contingent. While Didit Hediprasetyo was responsible for designing the costumes for the 2024 Paris Olympics, this time, the task has been handed over to Didiet Maulana through his brand, IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana.
The costumes have been deeply inspired by the spirit of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity), a concept that forms the 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 not only focuses on aesthetics but also on embodying the values of unity and diversity, which are fundamental to 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 “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.” 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 colors used in the costume design were also carefully chosen, each symbolizing different meanings. The color scheme, inspired by the Garuda Pancasila, includes red for courage, white for purity, gold for grandeur and glory, and touches of gray for responsibility.
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 photo session, themed “Embrace and Celebrating Our Athlete,” 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. The collection will be available for purchase through Mills coinciding with the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympic Games in Paris.
In conclusion, 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.
