Philanthropy through fashion
Actress Siti Saleha, in collaboration with Poplook, has put together a limited edition collection to raise funds for Cancer Research Malaysia, writes
SITI Saleha Baharum is without doubt the most popular and sought-after young actress today. Starting with her first acting gig in the television drama Nora Elena in 2011, she now has more than 50 dramas, telemovies and movies under her belt.
She is also the face of many local and international brands including Puma, Acuvue and Palmolive. To say that the multiple award-winning actress leads a hectic life is an understatement. But what many do not realise is that Siti Saleha is also passionate about humanitarian issues. Even before becoming a superstar, Siti Saleha (KL Zombi and Aku Bukan Spy) was involved in various fundraising activities and community programmes.
Among the organisations she has supported are Yayasan Budi Penyayang Malaysia, Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society, Juara Turtle Project, Project WHEE!, Petand ronas’ Program Sentuhan Kasih the Malaysian Rare Disorders Society.
Therefore, it is no wonder that the 27-year-old was eager to work with Poplook for the brand’s Gives Back campaign that pursues philanthropy through fashion.
The collaboration supports Cancer Research Malaysia in conjunction with breast cancer awareness month in Octoof ber. Thirty per cent from the sale the limited edition collection will be donated to the non-profit research organisation dedicated to the prevention and cure of cancer-linked diseases in the country and the Asian region.
“I’ve always known about Poplook and its give back programmes. They have worked with celebrities before and that intrigues me. When Poplook co-founder Joanne (Low) approached me in April to work together, I quickly said yes. It is the first time I am collaborating with a fashion brand as usually I just get involved directly with the charity organisations,” says Siti Saleha.
However, the collaboration had to be shelved for a short time as she was busy preparing for her wedding in July. After the ceremony, she got together again with PopLiyana look fashion designer Nik Amanina Nik Abd Aziz to discuss the collection.
“Since it was near October, we thought of coming up with a collection which would help raise awareness of breast cancer. We eventually decided to raise funds for Cannot cer Research Malaysia because it only focuses on breast cancer but other cancers as well.”
CHRYSANTHEMUM FLOWER
The eight-piece collection comprises
blouses, jeans and pants in black, white, dark blue and yellow. There are also headscarves. The central motif of the collection is the chrysanthemum flower. Symbolic of long life, good luck and hope, this flower that blossoms just before winter embodies the essence of this collection.
The pink ribbon — the symbol of breast cancer — is inserted in every piece. Earthy, neutral colours were chosen for this collection so that the wearer can mix and match easily.
“There is a lot of embroidery too because Amanina says it reflects my personality. We also included the pink ribbon in the embroidery which I thought was a great idea. These pieces are simple and sweet and can be worn either to the office or as casual wear. People love the collection and I was told it’s sold out,” says Siti Saleha.
While it may be the first time she is working with a fashion brand to raise funds for Cancer Research Malaysia,
it is actually the second time she is helping the research body.
When preparing for her wedding, Siti Saleha was looking for the perfect door gift for guests and a friend suggested somecancer. thing related to It may seem like an odd door gift for a wedding but Siti Saleha loved the idea. Her manager found out about Cancer Research Malaysia and its work. Siti Saleha then met with its founder Professor Teo Soo-Hwang.
Eventually, each guest received “cancer pins”. Siti Saleha also donated to Cancer Research Malaysia under their names. “It was an eye-opening experience for me because cancer is hard to cure. It is sad to know there are people who are trying to survive breast cancer or any other type of cancer. I’m just trying my best to help.
“I want to work with Cancer Research Malaysia whenever I can because I think it is important to raise awareness. I have been using my social media platform to tag my friends and followers about it and they have asked me questions. It is a great start.”