The 2024 Paris Paralympics, scheduled to begin on August 28, 2024, will showcase the hard work and determination of Indonesian Paralympians. As preparations continue, the design of the costumes for the Indonesian contingent is being finalized. Didiet Maulana, through his brand IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana, has been tasked with designing the costumes this time, following his previous work designing the costumes for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The costumes are 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 embodies the values of unity and diversity that are synonymous with Indonesia.
The “Sandya Niskala” design series incorporates traditional ikat weaving, representing the diversity of Indonesian culture. The design also features geometric patterns inspired by ocean waves, symbolizing Indonesia’s identity as an archipelagic nation. Motifs inspired by the Garuda Pancasila, the national emblem of Indonesia, are also incorporated into the design, symbolizing strength, unity, and solidarity. The colors used in the costume design – red, white, gold, and gray – carry deep meanings such as courage, purity, grandeur, and responsibility, respectively.
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 to celebrate the spirit and dedication of the athletes representing 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.
In addition to designing the costumes for the Paralympics, Didiet Hediprasetyo previously designed the costumes for the Indonesian contingent at the 2024 Paris Olympics. These costumes drew inspiration from the national song “Berkibarlah Benderaku” (Fly My Flag), featuring the red and white colors of the Indonesian flag and the Garuda Pancasila emblem.
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.
