The 12th iteration of Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week is will be held at KLCC Park, showcasing the homegrown creations of 50 fashion designers and brands from July 29 to August 4.

Set against the backdrop of the picturesque PETRONAS Twin Towers, KL Fashion Week will be held at a new show space especially built for the spectacle, stretching from one end of the Esplanade to the other. The area will have the main show hall, runways, various activation spaces and can accommodate up to 500 guests per show. The structure is designed with a large LED screen panel which will livestream the KLFW 2024 runway.

The Business Manual talked with KL Fashion Week Founder Andrew Tan about the recognition of the event at the recent Southeast Asia Business Awards, the outlook of the local fashion industry given the developments in digital and AI, and trends in the region.

KL Fashion Week was awarded the Southeast Asia Business Awards 2024 for Best Fashion Event in Malaysia. How does this award validate your impact on the business scene in the country?

Winning the Southeast Asia Business Awards 2024 for Best Fashion Event in Malaysia underscores KL Fashion Week (KLFW)’s significant influence on the national business landscape.

This accolade highlights our dedication to promoting Malaysian designers and creating a global platform for them. It reflects our success in attracting international attention, boosting fashion interest, and hopefully in the very near future, stimulating local economies through increased business activities.

The award is also a testament to our launch of Fashion Connect back in 2022, which is a full day networking and educational event designed to elevate the whole supply chain of the fashion industry by creating a sustainable and progressive ecosystem. The event offers scores of engaging and thought-provoking conversations and experiences with designers, industry insiders, and cultural figures. In its inaugural 2022 forum, key panellists include fashion designers Kit Woo, Nurita Harith and Rizman Nordin along with other major players from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), AmBank Group, Maxis and Capital A.

This recognition is a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and the elevation of Malaysian fashion on the world stage, reinforcing our role as a key driver in the country’s fashion and creative industries.

How have the clothing, apparel, and other fashion-related industries in the region been able to upgrade in terms of digitalization? What gaps remain, and what steps are being taken to help them upskill?

The fashion industry in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, has made strides in digitalization, embracing e-commerce platforms, short-form fashion visualizations, and digital marketing strategies.

Many brands have adopted online retail models and enhanced their social media presence to reach a broader audience. However, gaps remain in terms of digital infrastructure and skills. Smaller fashion enterprises often struggle with limited resources to fully transition to digital platforms.

To address this, initiatives such as digital training programs, government grants, and partnerships with tech companies are being implemented to upskill industry players, ensuring they can compete effectively in the digital age. The Human Resource Development Corporation of Malaysia has shown tremendous initiatives to upskill new competencies for the workforce of tomorrow.

How has the fashion industry in Kuala Lumpur been adjusting to the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into all facets of business?

The fashion industry in Kuala Lumpur is increasingly integrating AI to enhance various business operations. AI-driven tools are being utilised for predictive analytics in trend forecasting, inventory management, and personalised marketing. AI-powered design software is also helping designers create innovative and customised pieces.

However, the adoption of AI is still in its early stages, with many businesses exploring its potential benefits. Efforts are being made to provide education and training on AI applications, alongside investments in AI technology to ensure the industry can fully leverage these advancements for improved efficiency and competitiveness.

The latest global apparel industry statistics show that revenue from the apparel market is expected to hit $1.79 trillion in 2024. What opportunities do you see for Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries to get a bigger share of the market?

Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries have significant opportunities to capture a larger share of the global apparel market. The region’s strategic location, combined with competitive manufacturing costs and a growing pool of talented designers, positions it well for expansion.

Emphasizing sustainable and ethical fashion practices can also attract conscious consumers worldwide. Additionally, leveraging digital platforms to reach international markets and investing in technological innovations can enhance product offerings and customer experiences.

By focusing on quality, unique designs, and sustainability, Southeast Asian countries can strengthen their presence in the global apparel industry.

What business trends are you seeing in the Southeast Asian fashion industry?

Several key trends are shaping the Southeast Asian fashion industry. Sustainability and ethical fashion are gaining momentum, with brands increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices and transparent supply chains.

The rise of e-commerce and social media marketing is transforming how consumers shop and interact with brands. Additionally, there is a growing interest in local designers and traditional craftsmanship, which is being fused with modern fashion trends.

Digital transformation, including AI and data analytics (from retail-centric data services), is also playing a significant role in streamlining operations and enhancing customer experiences. These trends indicate a dynamic and evolving fashion landscape in Southeast Asia, poised for continued growth and innovation.