Bisaya-inspired outfits shine at Borneo Fashion Week 2025 as the event dazzles with style and soul

KUALA LUMPUR: A contemporary fashion collection inspired by the Bisaya ethnic heritage captivated audiences at the recent Borneo Fashion Week 2025 (BFW 2025) here, blending traditional elements of the Bornean indigenous community with a bold and modern twist.

The fashion designer duo from Brunei and Malaysia, Zulhelmi Kamaluddin and Fikri Afif Daud, presented 15 exclusive outfits under their label Bilang, featuring distinctive details such as butterfly-shaped brooches and traditional adornments crafted through fine patchwork techniques.

Each design infused modern and contemporary silhouettes, complemented by a striking palette of black and red - colours synonymous with traditional Bisaya attire and the main identity of the collection.

Beyond bringing a fresh aesthetic to the runway, the duo also aspires to elevate Bisaya ethnic culture to a regional platform and introduce it to the younger generation, especially those unfamiliar with the heritage of the community that originates from Brunei and the northern regions of Sarawak, such as Limbang and Lawas.

"Although their cultural heritage is rich and unique, it remains relatively unknown among local and regional communities,” Zulhelmi told Bernama after the fashion showcase.

According to Zulhelmi, the approach taken in this collection not only preserves traditional elements but also integrates modern touches to appeal to a wider market.

"As designers, we want these elements to be known more widely, especially within neighbouring countries like Indonesia and Thailand,” he said.

The fabrics used, including songket textiles, reflect cultural heritage and are adapted into styles that feel fresh and relevant.

For Fikri, the collection carries not only aesthetic value but also tells deeper cultural stories.

"We want this collection to pay tribute to Bisaya heritage by presenting a cross-cultural narrative between Brunei and Sarawak. It’s not just clothing... It’s a medium to share stories and cultural skills that may not yet be widely known,” he said.

The event came to a close in spectacular fashion after two dazzling days of celebration (Oct 10-11). Carrying the theme “Fashion With Purpose,” this prestigious event not only revived the glamour of modern fashion but also celebrated the spirit of sustainability, heritage, and the creative community that forms the heart of Borneo.

Founded and spearheaded by Stephanie Alcantara, a former beauty queen, fashion

visionary, and driving force behind the platform, BFW 2025 reaffirmed its standing as a global bridge between artistry, ethics, and identity. 

The event reached its pinnacle with the BFW 2025 Awards Night, an evening of glamour, movement, and magic. Featuring captivating traditional performances, star-studded guest appearances, and runway presentations by Calvin Thoo, Nasha Prive, Heritage Wear, and Yacutha, the finale was a testament to fashion’s power to unite artistry and emotion.

For Stephanie Alcantara, this year’s edition marks more than just another milestone in fashion; it reflects a movement.

“This year is a reflection of our dream to see fashion transcend beauty and embrace meaning,” said Stephanie. “Every piece showcased at BFW 2025 carries a story of sustainability, heritage, and love for our earth and our culture.”

She continued, “I’m deeply grateful to every designer, model, sponsor, and member of the media who made this event possible. Together, we’ve turned BFW into more than a fashion week; it’s a statement, a heartbeat, and a purpose-driven movement.”