Malaysian designers and entrepreneurs reveal what Malaysia really means to them

Several personalities from the style industry talk about the aspects of Malaysia that they love, and the experiences that makes its truly feel like home. Photo: Cuura

For the month of August and September, there has been a steady influx of new collections and campaigns to celebrate our country.

This is in conjunction with Merdeka Day, as well as Malaysia Day, which happens to be today.

Cuura, a local skincare brand recently celebrated Malaysia by releasing a promotional video.

It featured recognisable names from the style industry like Rico Rinaldi, Nurul Zulkifli of Mimpikita, Calaqisya's Yana Khairuddin and lots more.

Read more: Modern and colourful, fashion in Malaysia reflects the diversity of its people

Each one spoke about things that they love about this country and of the uniqueness of being Malaysian.

"Being Malaysian to me, is my identity," says Fazrena Aziz, founder of headscarf label Tudung People. "But to me I am more Malaysian than Malay. Being Malaysian is beyond race."

She adds: "It is in our lifestyle. It’s our food, our ancestors. Our history, our land and our future. I am proud to be Malaysian."

Read more: Embodying the spirit of Merdeka, local brands celebrate the country in style

"Being a Malaysian for me is to get the privelleged to grow up with other races and ethnicities which I call them my brothers and sisters. It's one whole big family here in Malaysia!" enthuses Ammar Petra, co-founder of ready-to-wear brand Petra.

For the founder of Cuura, who also started Modvier, a multi-label fashion house, being Malaysian is to recognise how diverse our country can be.

"We are unique. For example, Malaysians can use many languages in one sentence: 'Excuse me anney, can I have one roti canai makan here, another one tapau.' Power-lah!" she says.

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