The International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (IFCM) is emerging as a key force in shaping the nation’s fashion industry. Founded by Dr. Leena Al-Mujahed, IFCM was established with the mission of providing a unified platform for local designers, bridging the gap between artistic creativity and commercial success.
Officially launched in July this year, the Chamber has quickly begun making its mark. For its first year, IFCM has set ambitious goals that include building a strong local and international presence, forming strategic partnerships, and serving as a leading advocate for both the fashion industry and fashion education in the region.
“Our slogan is to connect creativity with commerce,” said Dr. Leena during the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2025) Modest Fashion Show & Forum in Kuala Lumpur. She emphasized that there was a growing need for a single platform that could bring together designers while equipping them with the resources necessary for growth and sustainability.
The Chamber’s first major collaboration was as a strategic partner for the Modest Fashion Show at MIHAS 2025. Dr. Leena described the partnership as a turning point in positioning modest fashion not only as an expression of cultural heritage but also as an important global economic sector. She highlighted that modest fashion represents a billion-dollar industry with significant potential for growth and international exposure, and stressed that supporting this sector is essential for both cultural and economic reasons.
Since opening membership in June, IFCM has recorded steady growth, reflecting the strong demand for its initiatives. Moving forward, the Chamber aims to broaden its membership base, pursue additional strategic partnerships, and continue its mission of elevating Malaysian fashion on the global stage.
Pengasas,International Fashion Chamber Malaysia (IFCM)
The MIHAS Modest Fashion Show offered a dynamic program of forums and presentations that brought together experts from across the industry. Among the highlights was the Fashion Business Beyond Borders Forum, where speakers from Kraftangan Malaysia, PEFEM, and the Malaysia-Pakistan Business Council explored the intersections of heritage, entrepreneurship, and trade. Another session, a Fireside Chat with Allianz, focused on Fashion Risk and Operational Coverage, offering practical guidance for small and medium-sized fashion enterprises to safeguard their businesses. Malaysia’s pioneering image consultant, Datin Norma Norell, also delivered a special presentation on image and personal branding, sharing insights into presence, confidence, and style.
The day culminated with the MIHAS Modest Fashion Show curated for the first time by IFCM. The runway celebrated modesty, cultural heritage, and innovation, featuring designers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Dubai. Among the standout Malaysian participants were Arlina Ayou, who combined traditional batik with leather craftsmanship, Bill Keith, who presented a collection inspired by the Sahara Desert, and Casalwa by Datin Sharifah Salwa Syed Shafie, whose “Whispers of Modesty” collection highlighted hibiscus motifs blended with traditional attire. Yani Bakhtiar also drew attention with Arabian-inspired modest wear accented with intricate beadwork.
Designers from Indonesia added further richness to the showcase. 3G by Icha Key USA presented “Sriwijaya Revival,” a collection celebrating Palembang’s songket artistry and the grandeur of the Sriwijaya Empire, while Donahue by Tanti introduced “Jogja Everyday Modesty,” which featured Yogyakarta-inspired batik, lambskin leather bags, and handcrafted shoes that balanced traditional craftsmanship with modern lifestyle needs.
MIHAS 2025, hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and organized by MATRADE, took place from September 17 to 20 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).
The International Fashion Chamber Malaysia operates as a non-profit organization with the vision of “Connecting Creativity and Commerce.” Representing designers, artisans, and small to medium-sized enterprises, IFCM is committed to supporting industry growth, facilitating global trade opportunities, and promoting Malaysian fashion on the international stage.