Malaysian designer Fern Chua brought a touch of homegrown artistry to the Asean Summit, where her hand-crafted batik scarves were presented to the spouses of attending leaders.
The gesture not only showcased Malaysia’s rich textile heritage, but also underscored the growing recognition of batik as a refined fashion statement beyond traditional wear.
Chua, founder of her eponymous label Fern Batik, is known for her modern interpretation of batik – each piece crafted through meticulous brushwork and organic motifs inspired by Malaysian nature.
Her contemporary approach bridges art and fashion, reimagining the centuries-old technique for today’s wardrobe.
Chua's batik pieces are produced in collaboration with local artisans, staying true to her brand’s mission of preserving traditional artistry through modern design.
Read more: Malaysian fashion designer Fern Chua talks about her 10-year journey with batik
“It’s an honour to have Malaysian batik represented at such a significant regional event,” Chua said.
“Batik tells our story – of heritage, creativity and community. Sharing that with the world through fashion feels deeply meaningful.”
This comes amid a renewed appreciation for artisanal fashion in South-East Asia, where designers are increasingly blending heritage techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
In this instance, her batik designs can be seen as both cultural ambassadors and elegant reminders that Malaysian fashion has a distinctive voice on the global stage.
The 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits were being held in Kuala Lumpur from Sunday (Oct 26) to Tuesday (Oct 28).
