The attire singer Aina Abdul wore when she performed at a recent event to celebrate National Unity Week 2024 was a real head-turner. It was no surprise that it drew so much attention as her voluminous gown was made of rattan – yes, the same natural material which is used in making furniture. Maintaining the natural colour of the rattan and adorned with pink embroidery, the unique dress looked beautiful on Aina, who won the best vocal award at the 37th Anugerah Juara Lagu last year.
The gown was specially created by reknowned fashion designer Melinda Looi, in collaboration with rattan artisans from the Penan ethnic group in Sungai Tutoh village, Baram, Sarawak. According to Looi, who has been involved in the local fashion industry for 20 years, the dress, which took almost a year to complete, is a tribute to Malaysian craftsmen and artisans. The gown features hand-harvested and hand-plaited rattan by Erang Ipoi, Serina Melai and Supang Sigak, with the supplemental patterning produced by Mandona Jusely, and embroidery by Melinda Looi's daughter, Maya Luebbert.
Photo: Aina Abdul "It’s more of an art piece rather than a dress. I created this as an artistic inspiration and not as a commercial wearable outfit. Read more: How designers like Malaysia's Melinda Looi are weaving heritage into fashion "I hope this work can inspire the younger generation to appreciate and preserve Malaysia's heritage crafts.
We must ensure our craftsmen, artisans and local businesses are able to sust.
