Suria KLCC CEO says KLFW partnership enters third year, drives Malaysian fashion onto bigger stage

KUALA LUMPUR - Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week's (KLFW) third consecutive year at Suria KLCC in 2026 represents more than just a change of venue, reflecting the event's evolution from a traditional runway showcase into a broader platform that promotes Malaysian designers, strengthens brand visibility and positions local fashion as part of the nation's cultural identity.

Suria KLCC Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Francis Tan said the partnership has grown beyond staging fashion shows by creating opportunities for designers to engage directly with shoppers through pop-up stores and in-mall activations.

He added that the initiative also leverages Suria KLCC's location beneath the Petronas Twin Towers, enabling local brands to reach both Malaysian shoppers and international visitors.

"This marks the third consecutive year that KLFW has been held at Suria KLCC, reflecting how the event has continued to evolve beyond a traditional runway showcase.

“While it began as a fashion show, it now provides a broader platform for local designers through pop-up stores and in-mall activations, giving them greater opportunities to engage with shoppers and build brand awareness," he said in an interview with Sinar Daily at KLFW 2026.

Francis said Suria KLCC’s position as one of Malaysia’s most visited destinations, coupled with its strategic location beneath the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, provides participating designers with valuable exposure to both local shoppers and international tourists.

He said the partnership with KLFW offers local fashion brands greater visibility and opportunities to grow alongside the event.

Beyond commercial prospects, Francis said Malaysian fashion should also be promoted as an important reflection of the country’s cultural identity.

"The aim is also to present Malaysian fashion as part of the country's cultural identity. Just as visitors explore a country's landmarks, food and traditions, fashion is another important expression of its culture.

“This year's KLFW incorporates more Malaysian heritage and cultural elements into its collections, offering international visitors something distinctive rather than the same fast-fashion trends found elsewhere.

“The platform allows local designers to showcase uniquely Malaysian creations that can generate recognition beyond the country,” he added.

Although Suria KLCC is home to numerous international luxury brands, Francis said the mall remains committed to supporting Malaysian designers by providing retail opportunities and helping them expand their presence.

He cited fashion label Sofia Iman as one example of homegrown success, having started with a kiosk at Suria KLCC in 2008 before growing into a permanent retail outlet and later opening KLFW 2025.

"Suria KLCC, while home to numerous international luxury brands, is equally committed to supporting local fashion designers and retailers. Over the years, it has actively nurtured homegrown talent by providing retail opportunities and greater visibility.

“One example is Sofia Iman, which began with a small kiosk at Suria KLCC in 2008 before expanding into a permanent store and opening KLFW 2025.

“This year, Suria KLCC is collaborating with Rizman Ruzaini, whose portfolio spans both ready-to-wear and couture collections suitable for international occasions.

“Through the mall's high visitor traffic and shopper profile, the partnership aims to further elevate Malaysian designers locally and internationally,” he mentioned.

Francis said establishing Kuala Lumpur as an internationally recognised fashion city would require time and sustained collaboration across multiple sectors.

He noted that established fashion capitals such as Milan, New York and Paris built their reputations over many decades and Kuala Lumpur’s journey towards gaining similar recognition would also be a long-term effort.

“While Suria KLCC and KLFW are contributing by creating platforms for local designers, achieving that ambition will require broader collaboration among the government, fashion industry and entertainment sector to continue promoting Malaysian fashion and positioning Kuala Lumpur on the global fashion map,” he said.

From Aug 3 to Aug 9, KLFW returned to the Esplanade at KLCC Park for its 14th edition under the theme Destination: Home Ground, bringing together more than 50 Malaysian designers and labels in a celebration of local creativity, culture and fashion.

Organised in collaboration with Suria KLCC, KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd and supported by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, the event extends beyond runway presentations through exhibitions, styling displays, pop-up activations and showcases of homegrown brands across Suria KLCC.