The 2024 Paris Paralympics, scheduled to start on August 28, 2024, will highlight the dedication and hard work of Indonesian Paralympians. As the preparations are ongoing, one crucial aspect being finalized is the design of the costumes for the Indonesian team. While Didit Hediprasetyo was responsible for designing the costumes for the 2024 Paris Olympics, this time, the task has been given to Didiet Maulana under his brand, IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana. The costumes draw inspiration from the concept of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity), which is a fundamental principle in these designs. In collaboration with Mills, the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora), and the National Paralympic Committee of Indonesia (NPC), Didiet Maulana has created a collection consisting of jackets, jerseys, and track pants. The design not only focuses on aesthetics but also embodies the values of unity and diversity that are essential to the Indonesian nation.
In a press release received on Monday, August 26, 2024, Didiet Maulana explained that the concept behind the “Sandya Niskala” design series is inspired by the diverse cultures and unifying values of Indonesia encapsulated in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. The design incorporates traditional ikat weaving elements, representing the cultural richness and diversity of Indonesia. The geometric patterns in the design resemble dynamic ocean waves, reflecting Indonesia’s identity as an archipelagic nation. These motifs symbolize the athletes’ struggle and optimism in competition. Additionally, the design draws inspiration from the Garuda Pancasila, Indonesia’s national emblem. The feather motif in the design signifies strength, unity, and solidarity, mirroring the values of the Indonesian nation.
The colors chosen for the costume design have deep meanings, with red symbolizing courage, white symbolizing purity, gold symbolizing grandeur and glory, and touches of gray symbolizing responsibility. Didiet aims to bring an energetic vibe, a sense of renewal, and good wishes for the Indonesian athletes through these colors. To celebrate the launch of the collection, Didiet Maulana and his team organized a photo session with Indonesian Paralympians participating in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. The athletes included Ni Nengah Widiasih, Leani Ratri Oktilla, Suryo Nugroho, M. Fadly Immamudin, Jendi Pangabean, and Teodora Audi Ayudia Ferelly. The photo session, themed “Embrace and Celebrating Our Athlete,” aimed to honor the athletes’ dedication and spirit as they represent Indonesia on the global 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, promoting unity and sportsmanship. The collection will be accessible through social media on Instagram @ikat_ind, @millssportid, @kemenpora, @npcindonesia, and will be available for purchase through Mills coinciding with the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympic Games in Paris.
It’s worth mentioning that the costumes for the Indonesian team at the 2024 Paris Olympics were previously designed by Didit Hediprasetyo, who is also 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 showcased the red and white colors of the Indonesian flag, complemented by the Garuda Pancasila emblem, reflecting national pride and the spirit of nationalism. Both Didiet Maulana and Didit Hediprasetyo have made significant contributions to designing costumes that not only serve their purpose but also carry meaningful messages of pride and unity for Indonesia on the global stage.
