The highly anticipated Couture Fashion Week Malaysia International Gala took place on 27th September 2024 at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. This premier event celebrated global fashion excellence, bringing together esteemed designers, industry experts and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.
Organized by Media Path Enterprise in partnership with Oriental Fashion Show Paris and the MENA-Asian Initiative, and proudly supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Cultures, the International Women Entrepreneurs of Malaysia (IWEM), and the YEOH Foundation, the gala highlighted a commitment to promoting sustainable fashion. With a vision to drive economic growth, it fosters partnerships across the fashion, lifestyle, tourism and hospitality sectors, creating a vibrant ecosystem that empowers communities and elevates various industries.
With the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture (MOTAC) and Tourism Malaysia, this gala aimed to elevate Malaysia’s presence on the international fashion stage, seamlessly blending eco-consciousness with high-end couture.
The event attracted notable guests, such as Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia and various influential figures, including those from the global fashion industry. Their presence underscored the gala’s significance in promoting both local and international fashion designers.
One of the main goals of the evening was to celebrate Malaysia’s rich textile heritage, showcasing traditional crafts like songket, batik and tenun. The gala provided an exceptional platform for both established and emerging talents, encouraging collaboration among designers, brands, buyers, media and industry professionals. It also ensured that young designers received the recognition they deserve, especially those who integrate Malaysia’s textile traditions into their contemporary creations.
The evening was highlighted by the exquisite work of renowned Malaysian designer Ridzuan Bohari, whose pieces beautifully combine traditional hand-painted batik with modern elegance. Known for catering to high-end clients and royalty, Ridzuan’s craftsmanship reflects timeless luxury and sophistication. Recently selected by Tourism Malaysia to represent the country at the prestigious Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, Ridzuan has made a name for himself in the couture world with his custom-designed fabrics and intricate detailing.
The gala opened with a stunning showcase from Roberto Cavalli, a brand synonymous with glamour and contemporary aesthetics. Known for its unique blend of Italian creativity and artisanal craftsmanship rooted in Florentine heritage, the collection dazzled with opulent fabrics and bold designs that captured the essence of contemporary style.
Among the standout designers was Mouna Benmakhlouf, a Paris-trained designer celebrated for her avant-garde pieces that push the boundaries of fashion. This event marked her exciting debut showcase in Malaysia as part of the prestigious Oriental Fashion Show Paris, in collaboration with World Fashion Week Dubai. The evening’s distinguished Chief Guest, Hind Joudar, founder of the Oriental Fashion Show Paris, was joined by Svitlana Kashcheieva, founder of World Fashion Week Dubai. Furthermore, GIO Couture showcased its eagerly awaited 2025 collections at the event, marking a highlight of World Fashion Week Dubai.
Guests were treated to haute couture designs from the acclaimed Malaysian shoe brand LEWRE Bespoke, known for its chic and comfortable career-focused collections and the environmentally conscious designs of KN Key NG, who transforms high-class fashion into stunning statements inspired by nature.
The gala dazzled with extraordinary collections from an impressive lineup of visionary designers, including Weili Couture’s exquisite creations, the bold elegance of Rosalind Kamis Couture, and the refined artistry of Vivien Tsai and Vivien Lee. Tommy Cha brings his signature flair to the runway, while international talents like QLOGO from Japan and Kovalsky Couture from Moldova captivated the audience with their innovative designs that reflect a blend of cultural richness and cutting-edge couture.
Approximately 100 models graced the runway, showcasing a breathtaking array of couture creations. Makeup artistry was flawlessly executed by MAC Cosmetics, while hair styling was managed by C&C Creative Consultancy and A Plus One Hair Products, adding to the glamour of the evening.
Guiding the festivities with poise and charm were multi-award-winning celebrity emcee Julianne Tan and renowned TV host Zamil Idris, a finalist from Malaysia Idol Season 1. Their dynamic presence added a touch of elegance to this grand event, making the Couture Fashion Week Malaysia International Gala an unforgettable celebration of fashion and sustainability.
Julianne Tan, Zamil Idris
Dat Thrower, Kimberley
Nadhira Zainal, Mia Nawawi
Ziinine A. Britshi (middle) with the designers and models
VChin Pua, Sheue Xin
Dr. Janethy Balakrishna, Nils Bokstrom