The 2024 Paris Paralympics, scheduled to begin on August 28, 2024, will highlight the dedication and hard work of Indonesian Paralympians. As preparations proceed, one crucial aspect being finalized is the design of the costumes for the Indonesian team. While Didit Hediprasetyo designed the outfits 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 draw inspiration from the concept of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity), which serves as the foundation for the 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 comprising jackets, jerseys, and track pants. The design not only focuses on aesthetics but also embodies the values of unity and diversity, which are integral to the Indonesian nation. In a press release on August 26, 2024, Didiet Maulana explained that the concept behind the costumes, named “Sandya Niskala,” is inspired by Indonesia’s diverse cultures and the strong sense of unity encapsulated in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
The “Sandya Niskala” design series incorporates elements of traditional ikat weaving to represent the richness and diversity of Indonesian culture, in line with the brand’s vision founded by Didiet Maulana in 2011. The design also features geometric patterns resembling ocean waves, inspired by Indonesia’s identity as an archipelagic nation. These motifs symbolize the athletes’ struggle and optimism in competition, according to Didiet. The design also draws inspiration from the Garuda Pancasila, Indonesia’s national emblem, with the feather motif symbolizing strength, unity, and the solidarity of the Indonesian nation.
The colors chosen for the costume design hold deep meaning, with the 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 hopes for the Indonesian athletes through these colors. To celebrate the launch of the collection, Didiet Maulana and his team conducted a photo session with Indonesian Paralympians participating in the 2024 Paris Paralympics, themed “Embrace and Celebrating Our Athlete,” to honor their spirit and dedication as representatives of Indonesia on the international stage.
The “Sandya Niskala” collection is intended to symbolize unity and diversity, inspire, and empower the athletes as they compete, promoting a sense of unity and sportsmanship. The collection will soon be accessible through social media and available for purchase through Mills coinciding with the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympic Games. It is worth noting that the costumes for the Indonesian contingent at the 2024 Paris Olympics were previously designed by Didit Hediprasetyo, known as the son of president-elect Prabowo Subianto. The costumes drew inspiration from the national song “Berkibarlah Benderaku” (Fly My Flag) and reflected national pride and the spirit of nationalism. Both Didiet Maulana and Didit Hediprasetyo have made significant contributions to designing costumes that are both functional and profound in meaning, conveying messages of pride and unity for Indonesia on the global stage.
