Can they step up?

BEJEWELLED kaftans, beaded gowns, gorgeous traditional wear, and generally distinctive looks are some of the hallmarks of Malaysia’s most successful designers. We can pretty much instantly recognise a Rizalman Rahman creation or a Radzuan Radziwill gown. Bernard Chandran’s pieces certainly stand out, as does Melinda Looi’s work.

But the industry cannot rely on a handful of big names to keep it going forever. What about the future? Are there any designers besides these “usual suspects” who could make their mark?