Passion for Malaysian fashion
MODA celebrates 25 years of having represented the interest of local designers in the country.
Representing the category of emerging designers were Ardana Haran, Lorenzo Peh, Nigel Chia, Hyacinthe Kaur, Nizam Zamil, Michelle Soong, Ellie Lim and Hanif Naim.
The night also saw Nur Irsalina Sulzaily from Limkokwing University presented with the MODA Samsung Innovative Award 2015. She was picked from among 12 students who showcased designs inspired by the Galaxy 6 mobile phone.
Hung explains that MODA is one of the oldest fashion organisations in Malaysia. She says that it was born out of not just the effort of one person, but the group on the whole – which has also helped kept it alive.
Regarding her role, Hung states: “I have been the strongest supporter of MODA throughout these years. I will continue to advise and educate, plus nurture new talents who will then play their part in the future.”
MODA was founded in 1990. One of its aims is to promote Malaysian fashion in an international arena. The organisation also looks to address the changing needs of the industry and foster growth among designers. FASHION, according to Malaysia Official Designers Association ( MODA), is all about unity and togetherness. It believes the industry is much more than just hefty price tags and extravagance.
When asked, MODA’s president Gillian Hung says that the non- profit organisation believes in bringing together designers and giving them the free reign to push their limits of creativity.
“This year, we’re looking back at 25 years of commitment to Malaysian fashion. Our anniversary celebrates both the devotion and passion, as displayed in our love for what we do.”
MODA’s grand anniversary party held recently at Publika in Kuala Lumpur highlighted 54 talents on the runway. These comprised the young and up- and- coming, as well as designers that are well- recognised and loved.
Veterans Melinda Looi, Eric Choong, Sonny San, Zang Toi, Syomir Izwa, Khoon Hooi, Amir Luqman, Zery Zamry and Leslie Varayan, to name a few, all presented glamorous creations that wowed.