The 2024 Paris Paralympics, scheduled to start on August 28, 2024, will highlight the dedication and hard work of Indonesian Paralympians. As the event approaches, one of the key elements being finalized is the design of the costumes that will be worn by the Indonesian team. While Didit Hediprasetyo was responsible for designing the costumes for the 2024 Paris Olympics, this time, the task has been entrusted to Didiet Maulana and his brand, IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana. The costumes are inspired by the concept of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity), which serves as 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 created 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 emblematic of the Indonesian nation.
The design series, known as “Sandya Niskala,” incorporates elements of traditional ikat weaving to showcase the diversity and richness of Indonesian culture, in line with the vision of Didiet Maulana’s brand founded in 2011. The design features geometric patterns resembling dynamic ocean waves, inspired by 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, the national emblem of Indonesia, with the feather motif representing strength, unity, and solidarity.
The colors used in the costume design were carefully chosen, with each color carrying significant meaning: red symbolizes courage, white symbolizes purity, gold symbolizes grandeur and glory, and touches of gray symbolize responsibility. The aim of IKAT Indonesia by Didiet Maulana is to bring an energetic vibe, a sense of renewal, and good wishes for the Indonesian athletes competing in the Paralympics.
To mark the launch of the collection, Didiet Maulana and his team held an exclusive photo session with Indonesian Paralympians participating in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. The session, themed “Embrace and Celebrating Our Athlete,” aimed to celebrate the spirit and dedication of the athletes representing 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.
The costumes for the Indonesian contingent at the 2024 Paris Olympics were previously designed by Didit Hediprasetyo, unveiled at an event in Jakarta in July 2024. 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, reflecting national pride and unity.
Both Didiet Maulana and Didit Hediprasetyo have played significant roles in designing costumes that are not only functional but also carry messages of pride and unity for Indonesia on the international stage.