TARCians Transform Orang Asli Folklore and Batik into Runway Designs

Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT's) presence was felt on the international runway as two of its Bachelor of Fashion Design (Hons) students, Damia Najla binti Mohd Azman and Sai Geerthanjaly, took centre stage at Fashionology 2026 in Surabaya, Indonesia. The event from 4 to 7 June 2026 was organised by students of the Fashion Product Design and Business programme at Universitas Ciputra, a university partner of TAR UMT. The event brought together aspiring designers to showcase their creativity and vision. The students' participation not only reflected their talent and dedication but also highlighted TAR UMT's growing reputation for producing graduates capable of excelling on the global stage.

Damia presented a collection inspired by Malaysia’s indigenous heritage and folklore, drawing deeply from the traditions of the Senoi community. “I grew up in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and did not have much exposure to the rich Malaysian heritage which are my roots.  I often found myself wanting to learn more about my Malaysian roots, and this fashion show inspired me to explore and celebrate the richness of my own heritage through fashion.”

Her research led her to the indigenous communities of Malaysia, particularly the Senoi community, which, became central to her design narrative. “I was captivated by the beauty of the Senoi’s traditional craftsmanship, cultural practices, and attire, especially the garments worn during their traditional Jooh dance,” she explained.

The collection translates these inspirations into contemporary creative wear, with layered silhouettes influenced by natural landscapes and woven details that pay tribute to indigenous craftsmanship. “The layered silhouettes are inspired by the flowing forms of Lata Kinjang Waterfall in Chenderiang, Perak, while the woven details pay tribute to the Senoi community and their remarkable craftsmanship,” she added.

Reflecting on the experience, Damia described showcasing her work internationally as deeply meaningful. “It was truly a surreal and rewarding experience,” she said. “Seeing the garments I personally handcrafted showcased on an international runway was a proud and emotional moment.” She added that the experience strengthened her artistic direction and appreciation for cultural storytelling through fashion.

Sai Geerthanjaly presented her collection, TINTA, which explores batik as a medium of storytelling and artistic expression. “My collection was developed as a reflection of my deep interest in the process of making batik, and my appreciation for handmade textile craftsmanship,” she said. “I became increasingly interested in treating fabric not simply as material, but as a medium for storytelling and artistic expression,” she explained.

Her collection was created entirely using the traditional batik canting technique, emphasising patience and craftsmanship. “Rather than rushing the process, I allowed each piece to develop naturally over time, embracing patience and craftsmanship as part of the design philosophy,” she shared. Anjaly also highlighted her intention to preserve traditional textile practices while reinterpreting them in a contemporary form. “In a fast-moving fashion industry, I wanted to create garments that celebrate time, handmade processes, and thoughtful creation,” she said.

Reflecting on her participation in Fashionology 2026, Anjaly described the experience as both inspiring and transformative. “Seeing my work move from sketches into a completed collection on an international runway felt rewarding and emotional,” she said. “It reminded me that fashion is not only about garments but also about communicating stories and ideas across audiences.”