Ziddaini (centre) poses with the young models: (from left) Nawra Maleesa Mohamad Norminhad (saree), Ilyaana Muhamad Saifuddin (baju Puteri Perak), Syarifa Ainul Mariah Abdul Syahid (samfu), Aleena Nayla Amierul Aizat (baju Minangkabau) and Nur Carrissa Adra Khairul Amin (baju Bidayuh). — Photos: ARIFF YUNUS
This Sunday is the 68th National Day and Ziddaini Putra Yazit, 47, wants to add an element of fun and cheer to the celebrations.
The Negri Sembilan-based creative wedding gift stylist and event decor specialist has come up with a collection of children’s costumes that celebrate the spirit of unity and harmony.
Themed Projek Semanis Merdeka (As Sweet as Merdeka Project), the collection features baju Minangkabau (Negri Sembilan), baju Puteri Perak, samfu, saree and baju Bidayuh (Sarawak).
Polka dot elements in the colours of the national flag, Jalur Gemilang, are featured in the fabrics.
“I wanted to create something fresh and easily recognisable for the upcoming National Day celebrations. Polka dots are cheerful, especially when worn by young girls.
“When arranged in the colours of the national flag, they evoke the courage of Merdeka behind a gentle exterior. Indirectly, it allows a blend of culture and modern style without losing the country’s identity,” says Ziddaini in a phone interview from Nilai, Negri Sembilan.
In 2022, he made headlines after creating outfits inspired by astronaut uniforms and cheongsam styles for his nieces and nephews to wear at their school’s National Day celebrations.
In 2023, his Camouflage Jalur Gemilang concept creatively integrated national colours into traditional attire, with all the outfits modelled by children.
‘For me, being Malaysian means embracing diversity as strength, not difference,’ says Ziddaini.
Last year, he turned to batik and tie-dye, once again using children as models.
“From the beginning, I have created my own patterns, chosen special fabrics, and combined diverse cultural identities in a single collection. I enjoy uniqueness and breaking the norm.
“Each design has a story and a reason – not just be visually beautiful, but meaningful at heart.”
For his latest project, he collaborated with four tailors, two makeup artists, and five home-based bakers from Nilai.
“All of them are homemakers who possess skills in their respective fields, which indirectly helps support their families’ income. The project was planned and executed in less than a month, from ordering the fabrics to completing the photoshoot.
“Promoting the spirit of togetherness is worth every sen, because when we stand united, we give real meaning to Merdeka,” says Ziddaini, who invested a few thousand ringgit in the project.
Mageswari Manokaran was one of the tailors who helped bring the Merdeka-themed collection to life.
Last week, Ziddaini held a photoshoot for Projek Semanis Merdeka.
He had the children of the collaborators – aged between five and seven – wear the costumes paired with circular-shaped snacks like doughnuts, macarons, popcorn, apam polkadot (steamed cupcakes) and meringue lollipops.
“I see polka dots and circular-shaped foods as symbols of joy, unity and friendliness. Food brings a sense of closeness when shared.”
Ziddaini believes that creative designs can help nurture nationalism among Malaysians.
“Art is a language everyone understands, regardless of age or background. When we encounter something beautiful, unique and representative of our country, it instils pride.
“Creative designs give fresh energy to the patriotic spirit, especially for the younger generation, who are naturally drawn to visuals and style,” says Ziddaini, who shares photos of his costume creations on his Facebook (@Ziddaini Putra Yazit).
Ilyaana Muhamad Saifuddin models in a Puteri Perak costume.
When asked what it means to be Malaysian, Ziddaini says: “For me, being Malaysian means embracing diversity as strength, not difference. It is about sharing spaces, tastes and stories with an open heart.
“I hope Malaysia continues to be a land where creativity can grow freely, where every voice – even as small as a polka dot – adds colour to the larger story of our country,” he says, adding that his designs are part of an annual project collection and though not for sale, are available for rent.
