KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 – The International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (IFCM) is poised to become a central force in the nation’s fashion industry. Founded by Dr. Leena Al-Mujahed, IFCM’s mission is to provide a unified platform for local designers, bridging the gap between artistic vision and commercial success.
Officially launched in July this year, the Chamber has wasted no time. Its primary goals for the inaugural year include building a strong presence both locally and internationally, forging strategic partnerships, and serving as a leading advocate for the fashion industry and education in the region.
“Our slogan is to connect creativity with commerce,” said Dr. Leena when met at the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2025) Modest Fashion Show & Forum in Kuala Lumpur today.
“We saw the need for a single platform that connects designers and provides them with the resources to grow,” said Dr.Leena.
The IFCM’s first major collaboration is its role as a strategic partner for the Modest Fashion Show at MIHAS. Dr. Leena views this partnership as a critical step in promoting a significant and lucrative sector of the industry.
“This is a turning point in positioning modest fashion as both cultural heritage and a global economic sector. Supporting modest fashion is crucial. It’s a billion dollar business, and this partnership will bring more international connections and exposure for our local designers.”
Since opening membership in June, the Chamber has seen steady growth, indicating strong demand for its initiatives. Looking ahead, IFCM aims to expand its membership, secure more strategic partnerships and continue its mission to elevate local fashion on a global scale.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MIHAS MODEST FASHION SHOW
The event featured a series of insightful forums and presentations, including;
- Fashion Business Beyond Borders Forum: Speakers from Kraftangan Malaysia, PEFEM, and the Malaysia-Pakistan Business Council explored heritage, entrepreneurship and trade.
- Fireside Chat with Allianz: This session focused on Fashion Risk & Operational Coverage (FROC), providing small and medium-sized fashion enterprises with essential advice on safeguarding their businesses.
- Special Presentation on Image & Personal Branding: Malaysia’s pioneering image consultant, Datin Norma Norell, shared her insights on presence, confidence and style.
The day concluded with the MIHAS Modest Fashion Show, curated by IFCM for the first time. The runway showcased designers from Malaysia, Indonesia and Dubai, celebrating modesty, cultural heritage, and innovation.
Notable Malaysian designers included Arlina Ayou, who fused Malaysian batik with leather craftsmanship; Bill Keith presented a tribute to the Sahara Desert; and Casalwa by Datin Sharifah Salwa Syed Shafie, whose “Whispers of Modesty” collection blended hibiscus motifs with traditional attire; Yani Bakhtiar showcased Arabian-inspired modest wear with contemporary flair, adorned with intricate beadwork.
Indonesia’s 3G by Icha Key USA, with the theme ‘Sriwijaya Revival’, celebrates Palembang’s songket artistry and the grandeur of the Sriwijaya Empire while Donahue by Tanti, with the theme ‘Jogja Everyday Modesty’, featured Yogyakarta-inspired batik, lambskin leather bags and handcrafted shoes that marry tradition with modern lifestyle.
MIHAS 2025, hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and organized by MATRADE, took place from September 17–20 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).
About the International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (IFCM)
The International Fashion Chamber Malaysia is a non-profit organization dedicated to “Connecting Creativity and Commerce.” Representing designers, artisans and SMEs, IFCM advocates for industry growth, facilitates global trade opportunities and champions Malaysian fashion on the international stage.
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