The International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (IFCM) is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s fashion industry. Founded by Dr. Leena Al-Mujahed, IFCM was created with the mission of providing a unified platform for local designers, enabling them to bridge the gap between artistic vision and commercial success. Officially launched in July this year, the Chamber has already begun making its mark, setting ambitious goals that include building a strong presence both locally and internationally, forging strategic partnerships, and serving as a leading advocate for fashion education and industry growth in the region.
Speaking at the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2025) Modest Fashion Show and Forum in Kuala Lumpur, Dr. Leena emphasized the Chamber’s core philosophy. “Our slogan is to connect creativity with commerce. We saw the need for a single platform that connects designers and provides them with the resources to grow,” she explained. IFCM’s first major collaboration came through its role as a strategic partner for the Modest Fashion Show at MIHAS, which Dr. Leena described as a crucial step in positioning modest fashion as both cultural heritage and a thriving global economic sector. Highlighting the industry’s immense potential, she stressed that modest fashion is a billion-dollar business, and this partnership would offer international exposure and stronger connections for Malaysian designers.
Since opening membership in June, IFCM has recorded steady growth, a clear indication of strong demand for its initiatives. Looking to the future, the Chamber aims to expand its membership further, secure more strategic partnerships, and continue its mission of elevating local fashion onto the global stage.
At MIHAS 2025, IFCM curated the Modest Fashion Show for the very first time, following a series of engaging forums and presentations. The Fashion Business Beyond Borders Forum brought together speakers from Kraftangan Malaysia, PEFEM, and the Malaysia-Pakistan Business Council, who discussed themes of heritage, entrepreneurship, and cross-border trade. A fireside chat with Allianz focused on Fashion Risk and Operational Coverage, offering vital advice for small and medium-sized fashion enterprises to safeguard their businesses. Another highlight was a special presentation on image and personal branding by Malaysia’s pioneering image consultant, Datin Norma Norell, who shared her expertise on presence, confidence, and style.
Pengasas,International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (IFCM)
The day culminated with the runway showcase, which brought together designers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Dubai to celebrate modesty, cultural heritage, and contemporary innovation. Malaysian talent shone brightly, with Arlina Ayou presenting a fusion of batik and leather craftsmanship, Bill Keith unveiling a desert-inspired collection, Casalwa by Datin Sharifah Salwa Syed Shafie offering the “Whispers of Modesty” line that merged hibiscus motifs with traditional attire, and Yani Bakhtiar delivering Arabian-inspired designs enhanced with intricate beadwork.
From Indonesia, the label 3G by Icha Key USA drew attention with its theme “Sriwijaya Revival,” celebrating Palembang’s songket artistry and the grandeur of the Sriwijaya Empire. Donahue by Tanti introduced “Jogja Everyday Modesty,” featuring Yogyakarta-inspired batik, lambskin leather bags, and handcrafted shoes that balanced tradition with modern lifestyle sensibilities.
MIHAS 2025 was hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and organized by MATRADE. The event took place from September 17 to 20 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), bringing together global stakeholders and industry players under one roof.
The International Fashion Chamber Malaysia stands as a non-profit organization devoted to “Connecting Creativity and Commerce.” By representing designers, artisans, and small and medium-sized enterprises, the Chamber advocates for industry growth, facilitates global trade opportunities, and champions the presence of Malaysian fashion on the international stage.