The Borneo Fashion Week (BFW) 2025, which concluded its two-day run over the weekend, came to a close in spectacular fashion after two dazzling days of celebration on Oct 10-11.
Carrying the theme “Fashion With Purpose,” the 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 opened in grandeur with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, opening remarks, and a captivating traditional dance performance that set the tone for the days ahead.
The runway then came alive with breathtaking collections from GC Jade, Bilang, Clarissima, Even Ong, Aldrin Artistry and Hayden Ng, each telling its own visual story of craft, culture, and contemporary design.
Through vibrant palettes, intricate textiles, and avant-garde silhouettes, these designers transformed tradition into trend, blending Borneo’s soul with international sophistication.
As night fell, the runway transformed into a scene of modern allure as Nasha Prive, Barzwang, Inayad, Wan Bynun, Jay K, Maswira Majid and Ocely unveiled their dramatic and distinctive collections, a high-voltage evening that left Pavilion Damansara Heights echoing with applause and admiration.
The second day opened with a sponsor appreciation session, a moment of gratitude for the partners who helped bring BFW 2025 to life - including Pavilion Damansara Heights, Cavu Fragrance, NADI Clinic, Pensonic, Esperer Cosmetiques, Laurastar, Felix Relocations, Jambo BSC, Kai Academy, Go Viral Labs, Music Force, ROGUES Café, and That's The Spirit.
In addition, Stephanie Alcantara also expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the Asean Fashion Designers Showcase (AFDS), which includes representatives from Brunei, Singapore, Vietnam, and Malaysia, for their strong presence and contribution to the success of BFW 2025 this year.
The afternoon showcases followed with an exquisite display of craftsmanship by Indra Murak, December Teo, Bianca, Saerah R. Kunjan and Angelique, taking the audience on a journey from modern minimalism to avant-garde elegance.
The night 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.
Among the highlights of the evening were the announcement of winners in key categories including:
Green Thread Award – Saerah R. Kunjan
BFW25 Most Promising Designer – Ocely
BFW25 Emerging Designer of The Year – Barzwang
BFW25 Designer of The Year – Nasha Prive
BFW25 Model of The Year (Female) – Rania
BFW25 Model of The Year (Male) – Ariq
The awards honored visionaries who dare to redefine beauty and push creative boundaries while staying true to authenticity and sustainability.
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.”
The success of BFW 2025 signifies a defining moment for Malaysia’s fashion landscape, particularly for emerging talents from Borneo who are ready to shine on the world stage.
Blending professionalism, creativity, and cultural pride, this edition stands as one of the most defining in BFW’s history. With international designers, influencers, and media in attendance, BFW 2025 positioned Borneo as Asia’s next rising fashion capital where artistry meets authenticity, and sustainability meets style.
“We’re moving forward with renewed purpose,” Stephanie concluded. “Borneo Fashion Week is no longer just an annual event, it’s a living, breathing identity. A voice for fashion with meaning in Malaysia.”
