With Amber Chia nearby, her son Ashton Wong steps onto the fashion scene with a confidence that feels both inherited and entirely his own.
Having briefly modelled as a child, he only returned to the industry this year – approaching it now with a clearer sense of self, while his mother looks on with a mix of pride and perspective, well aware of what it demands.
“It’s very emotional for me,” says Chia, 44, reflecting on her journey as one of Malaysia’s OG international models.
“When I see him stepping into this ‘world’, it brings back many memories of my own journey. The struggles, the growth and the lessons, I had to learn them the hard way.”
After winning the Guess Watches Timeless Beauty International Model Search in 2004, Chia became the first Asian model to front a global Guess Watches campaign.
She later went on to walk the Victoria Beckham Autumn/Winter 2009 ready-to-wear show during New York Fashion Week.
When he was young, he made brief appearances with his mother in themed shoots and the occasional runway show.
However, at the time, it was more experience than education, and he did not yet grasp the discipline, structure or demands behind the work.
“Now that I’m older, I feel more ready – mentally and personally – to explore it again,” he explains on his decision to return to modelling at 15.
“I want to challenge myself, gain confidence and see how far I can go.”
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The duo walked the runway for a local fashion label in January.
It became clear during the show that Wong shares his mother’s stage presence and poise, moving with a natural ease that echoes her signature stride – more apparent than ever, as he nears adulthood.
“At that moment, I wasn’t just a model. I was a mother watching her child grow and step into his own light,” Chia gushes.
“Walking the runway is something I’ve done for many years, but walking it with my son beside me, now that he’s no longer a child, felt completely different. It was emotional, proud and deeply meaningful.”
It seems some of that perspective is carrying over too.
“Watching my mum, I’ve learned that modelling is not as easy as it looks. It requires a lot of discipline, hard work and consistency,” Wong adds.
What’s your view of the modelling industry today, especially with the rise of social media?
Chia: The industry has evolved tremendously. When I first started, modelling was mainly about runway, photoshoots and agency representation.
Today, it goes far beyond that. A model is no longer just a model – you also need to understand social media, create content and build a connection with your audience.
In today’s world, you have to be both a model and a tastemaker.
While social media makes it easier to be discovered, it also makes the industry more competitive. Everyone has a platform now, so the challenge is to stay authentic, consistent and relevant.
Wong: I think social media gives more opportunities to be seen and to express yourself. At the same time, it can be quite challenging because there’s a lot of comparison and pressure.
So I think it’s important to stay focused and not lose your own identity.
Do you think motherhood has influenced your perspective on the fashion and modelling industry?
Chia: Motherhood has grounded me in a very different way.
When I first entered the industry, everything was about proving myself and chasing opportunities.
But becoming a mother changed my priorities and perspective. I became more mindful – not just about success, but about values, balance and purpose.
Today, I see the industry not only as a platform for beauty and creativity, but also as a space where I can inspire confidence, discipline and self-respect, especially among the younger generation.
Seeing your son now stepping into modelling, what emotions or reflections does that bring up for you?
Chia: I feel proud, not because he is following my path, but because he has the courage to explore something new.
More than anything, I want him to enjoy the journey and grow as a person, not just as a model.
In what ways do you guide him as both a mother and a mentor?
Chia: As a mother, I focus on his character. Discipline, humility and respect will always come first.
As a mentor, I guide him on the professional side – how to carry himself, how to stay consistent, and how to handle both opportunities and rejection.
But I’m careful not to pressure him. This is his journey, and I’m here to support and guide, not control.
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Wong: Watching my mum, I’ve learned that life as a fashion model is not as easy as it looks. It requires a lot of discipline, hard work and consistency.
People may only see the glamour, but behind it, there’s a lot of effort and sacrifice. That really changed how I see the industry – I respect it more now.
One thing she always tells me is: “Be a good person first.”
She also reminds me to stay humble, be patient, and never give up too quickly.
These are things that I try to carry with me, not just in modelling, but in life.
As the son of a famous fashion model, what are your thoughts on individuality and personal branding?
Wong: I think individuality is very important today.
Everyone can post and create content, but not everyone stands out.
For me, I’m still learning and exploring who I am as a model. I don’t want to rush it – I want my identity to grow naturally.
I believe being real and confident in who you are is what makes people remember you.
