Sarawakian fashion designers dazzled the runway at the Old Courthouse, Kuching, during the Fashion of Borneo event held recently. The designers cleverly weaved their own signature and identity into their Bornean roots, fusing their designs with the rich culture and heritage of Sarawak.
Testament to the spirit and creativity of Borneo
Prominent Sarawak designers recently unveiled their end-of-the-year collection, showcasing a stunning assortment of clothing. The fashion showcase, held at the Old Courthouse, Kuching, saw exquisitely designed pieces by 10 household names — Yacutha, Wan Bynun, Nasha Prive, Keith Sim, Dickson Lim, Harizan Khaider, Lhuna, Kesya Fatin, Atelier Chim and B2 by Bunga Bunga.
The event, aimed at celebrating the rich culture and traditions of Borneo, saw each designer showing merit in their designs, where they balanced their creative process with Sarawakian characteristics, keeping fashion aficionados amazed at the presentation, proving that there is an appreciation of cultural fashion in the midst of the modern era.
During the event, representative of the organisers, FE2 Production and Beyond the Wear, Efeida Effendi-Herr, said that each adornment is a testament to the spirit and creativity of Borneo.
“We are not merely celebrating fashion; we are honouring the rich tapestry of the culture and tradition to which our beloved Borneo represents. Our heritage is a treasure trove of style and sophistication, as dynamic as any haute couture collection on the world’s greatest runway.”
Efeida also added that the traditions of Borneo inspire a sartorial elegance that is both timeless and contemporary — a reminder that our roots can be beautifully intertwined with modernity.
“Furthermore, the designs are not merely exquisite garments but also embrace the stories, artistry and commitment of the designers to cultural preservation. Wearing a piece created by these artisans is a celebration of heritage, a statement of identity and an opportunity to share the narratives of our people.”
About the designs:
Lhuna — As a product of an interracial relationship, I have always been inspired by and appreciate different cultures from around the world. Naturally, that would translate into my work as a fashion designer. My aesthetic has always been about culture clash, be it cultures from different races or even lifestyle cultures like goth, bohemian, punk and wicca. It is my own way of bringing people together.
The way I see it, we are all sharing and living on this planet called Earth. So what better way to enhance this experience called life than to share and appreciate the different and unique colours, cultures and genders we have as a human race. I believe that is also the aesthetic of being a Bornean. The collection that I am presenting is a result of my endless love and appreciation for Japanese fashion and streetwear. I have also combined Nusantara elements and created modern accessories by adapting our rich ethnic Borneo influences.
Yacutha — “YACUTHA’s collections are perfect for those who appreciate sustainable fashion and unique designs that stand out in the crowd. Fluid silhouettes, perfect for achieving a chic resort lounge style. Each piece is meticulously crafted to encapsulate the essence of nature’s beauty, reflecting a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.”
Nasha Prive — “This is an introduction to our latest design fabric showcase. We always take inspiration from the beauty of Sarawak’s culture and art. This time, appearing in ready-to-wear, streetwear elements are combined with the image of Bidayuh tribes, the latest Pua patterns and modern daily silhouettes. The beauty of our Ring Ladies and the uniqueness of our Iban ‘pua’ patterns are reworked without violating the etiquette so that they can be easily adopted by all groups of society.”
Wan Bynun — “My collection is rooted in the rich heritage of Borneo, utilising handwoven Borneo fabric to celebrate its intricate craftsmanship. My vision is to transform these traditional textiles into modern, wearable pieces that people can incorporate seamlessly into their daily wardrobes. By doing so, I move beyond showcasing them as costumes, ensuring they resonate with contemporary fashion while preserving their cultural significance.”
Keith Sim — “’The Garden of Eden’ collection delves into the serene and enigmatic aspects of the Eden story, with a special focus on the often-overlooked figure of Lilith. This demi couture collection brings to life themes of creation, exile, and feminine strength through a blend of modern design and timeless elegance.”
Harizan Khaider — “We proudly present a sumptuous capsule collection inspired by the legendary Sarawakian diva, Datin Seri Camelia Khalid. This lavish assemblage redefines the sartorial elegance she has graced over the past decades, masterfully weaving in the ageless charm of Sarawak Tenun prints. The collection showcases an exquisite range of contemporary Baju Kurung Pesak Gantung, cutting-edge outerwear, Kurta sets, opulent dresses, and impeccably tailored trousers.”
Dickson Lim — “Our Spring/Summer 2025 explores the transformative essence of love as it evolves over time. This collection mirrors the fluidity and dynamism of sand, continuously shifting and changing with the passage of time. Each piece in this collection reflects the idea of an ever-evolving landscape, much like dunes shaped by the winds of time, celebrating the natural beauty of transformation. This collection stands as a testament to the enduring beauty found in the continuous dance of change.”
Atelier Chim — “The origins of Atelier Chim started with a fascination with leathercraft while Chim was working as a software engineer. Using materials found online, she taught herself leathercraft, and the passion grew to become an obsession. Through her years of experience in an established luxury house, the craftsmanship of Chim evolved at an accelerated pace. It was there where she honed the high attention to detail and perfectionism on the products. Bringing the same passion and quality, Atelier Chim opened its doors in 2018 in Malaysia. Being a small handmade brand, we would love to connect to our customers in a warm and personal way. Beyond being just a store, our delight is to share our passion and appreciation for leathercraft with every individual who walks through our doors. We hope that you find the same joy through our leather crafts.”
B2 by Bunga-Bunga — “In our ‘Tradition Meets Innovation: At B2 by Bunga-Bunga’ collection, we create bags that blend the artistry of traditional craftsmanship with the bold, dynamic needs of modern design. Our collection honours heritage while embracing the spirit of contemporary fashion, resulting in timeless pieces that are both beautiful and functional. Our vision is to craft bags that seamlessly merge traditional handcrafting with modern materials and innovative design. Each piece reimagines the past for today’s world — elegant, practical and built to endure.
“Inspired by our rich cultural heritage, we reinterpret classic patterns, intricate embroidery, and vintage textures through a modern lens. Traditional shapes and textures are refreshed with sleek lines and minimalist silhouettes, creating bags that embody both history and the fast-paced present. Designed for modern women and men, our bags balance beauty with practicality. Crafted with sustainability in mind, each piece is a timeless statement of versatility and precision, ensuring lasting appeal while celebrating both tradition and innovation.”
Kesya Fatin — “We are more than just a brand; we are a celebration of creativity, individuality, and charm, all wrapped up in the most eye-catching beaded bags you’ve ever seen. We’re here to turn everyday accessories into statement pieces that will not only elevate your style but also spark joy and confidence. Each design reflects a passion for craftsmanship and a love for the little details that make life brighter. Whether it’s a vibrant bag, a playful keychain, or a chic cardholder, every Kesya Fatin piece is a blend of fun, functionality, and undeniable flair. Perfect for adding a touch of extra to your wardrobe, Kesya Fatin ensures you carry good vibes — and compliments — everywhere you go.”
