Kota Kinabalu: Seven aspiring designers from Sabah, Indonesia and the Philippines showcased their creations at the “KK is My Runway” at Aeropod, Tanjung Aru on Saturday.
Celebrating Sabah’s evolving fashion scene, the designers took centre stage, parading a blend of tradition and modernity, creating new experience into the industry.
The vibrant and colourful creations highlighted the unique potential of Sabah’s designers to re-imagine traditional ethnic motifs in contemporary fashion. Models showing fashion designs of Kiara Lim in the event recently.
Two local designers, Jamaliah Dullah of Neil Couture and Ani Mustapah Creation, stood out for their innovative use of ethnic patterns and cultural symbols, giving a modern twist to timeless designs.
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KK Is My Runway event were organised by Kiara Lim and Santi Guarin, which they obtained permit from DBKK
Ani Mustapah of Kota Belud took less than a month to complete her creation, dubbed “Dendosamah”, a proud representation of the Bajau Samah of Kota Belud.
“There has been significant promotion for ethnic groups like the Kadazan and Dusun, but very little about the Bajau Samah.
“So I made efforts and took this opportunity to highlight my ethnic identity by showcasing this beautiful creation representing my race,” said Ani.
Another aspiring young designer, Jamaliah Dullah, who has created hundreds of collections, took a bold step by incorporating a modern twist with ethnic motifs inspired by Sabah’s indigenous people.
Adding to the diversity of the runway, the event featured designers from neighbouring countries such as Kiara Lim, Santi Guarin, Patrick De Guzman and Michael Gaspar Mendoza from the Philippines, each bringing their unique styles and flair. A model donning another Santi Guarin's design in the event.
From Indonesia, solo designer Jura Akbar made a mark with his fresh and bold designs, another brave creation to spice up the show.
Santi Guarin, one of the Filipino designers, noted that the event was not just a collaboration between countries but a “powerhouse partnership” between Asean fashion designers and Sabah’s talents.
“This event highlights the groundbreaking collaboration with local Sabah designers, sharing a collective vision for the future where modern design and tradition intertwine seamlessly,” he said.
He added that the cross-cultural exchange showed how fashion is a powerful medium that stand out, blending styles from different cultures while embracing modern trends.