LIFESTYLE

@ Halal | July-August. 2026

STRONGER TOGETHER: Industry players unite to shape the future of Malaysian fashion.

� The MIHAS briefing emphasised combining creativity with business skills and networking to thrive in the global fashion industry.

MIHAS Modest Fashion Week; conceived, curated and led by MyFashionChamber Founder and Chief Executive Officer Jay Ishak; exemplifies this new direction for the industry. As global competition rises, designers must adapt to new trends and technology, blending creativity with strong business skills and industry connections.

The MIHAS Modest Fashion Week Industry Briefing addressed these needs, bringing together designers, entrepreneurs, students, educators, media, and industry partners to explore opportunities shaping Malaysia ' s fashion landscape.

The event fostered collaboration and dialogue, connecting participants with opportunities and empowering both individuals and brands in Malaysia ' s growing fashion industry.

Jay Ishak, leading the Chamber’ s industry development and international partnership initiatives, emphasised that the briefing was designed to help participants assess their position, clarify their needs, and plan their next steps.

MORE THAN ONE PATH

" Fashion is not one size fits all, and neither is one opportunity."

This message was a key takeaway from the session.

Jay noted that everyone enters the industry from a different starting point. Some designers are ready for international expansion, while others are seeking market direction or the right platform to launch their work.

Graduates may have the necessary skills but need entry points into the industry. Fashion entrepreneurs and service providers may offer valuable solutions but

A VISION FOR FASHION GROWTH: Jay Ishak outlines the importance of matching designers with opportunities that suit their stage of development.

" The purpose is simple: to help you understand the opportunities, identify what is relevant to you and decide what your next step should be."

Jay Ishak require stronger networks to reach clients and collaborators.

Instead of promoting a single path, the briefing encouraged participants to identify opportunities that align with their current stage of growth.

CONNECTING THE INDUSTRY

This is where MyFashionChamber, officially known as the International Fashion Chamber Malaysia, plays its role.

The organisation connects the fashion ecosystem by bringing creativity and commerce together through education, collaboration, industry access, and international engagement.

Its goal is to help designers understand market expectations, connect graduates with industry players, and foster partnerships among institutions, businesses, and government agencies, creating clear growth pathways for all.

LOOKING BEYOND THE RUNWAY

Jay ' s perspective is shaped by experience.

This year marks her fourth year curating the MIHAS Modest Fashion Programme, where she has seen first-hand how the right platform can transform a designer ' s journey.

Over the years, participating designers have gained international visibility,

� MyFashionChamber connects designers with education, collaboration, and international opportunities for growth beyond the runway.

� Participants are urged to assess their position and choose relevant paths, such as showcasing or expanding internationally, for ongoing success.

built valuable relationships, and explored opportunities beyond Malaysia. These experiences convinced her that meaningful growth continues beyond the runway.

Instead, it requires continuous support, better preparation and a long-term commitment to developing both talents and businesses.

PREPARING FOR WHAT ' S NEXT

The briefing also introduced upcoming programmes from MyFashionChamber, as well as opportunities related to MIHAS Modest Fashion Week and international markets such as China, Italy, and the United States.

Jay encouraged participants to reflect on their goals and select opportunities that align with their ambitions, rather than joining every available programme.

For some, the next step may be showcasing a collection at MIHAS Modest Fashion Week. For others, it could be education, industry partnerships, membership, or expanding into international markets.

Regardless of the path, Jay believes success starts with understanding your current position and preparing for future opportunities.

" The purpose is simple: to help you understand the opportunities, identify what is relevant to you and decide what your next step should be," added Jay.-