Cover ‘The Malaya’ collection by Rizman Ruzaini, a stunning embodiment of Malaysia’s heritage and valour, celebrating the nation's rich history and cultural pride (Photo: Rizman Ruzaini)
‘The Malaya’ collection by Rizman Ruzaini, a stunning embodiment of Malaysia’s heritage and valour, celebrating the nation's rich history and cultural pride (Photo: Rizman Ruzaini)
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In light of the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games held along the Seine River in Paris, Rizman Ruzaini unveils The Malaya collection for Malaysia's contingent to sport at the opening ceremony
As the world turns its gaze to Paris for the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games, our Malaysian athletes are set to proudly represent their nation at the opening ceremony on 26 July, dressed in Rizman Ruzaini’s The Malaya collection.
Drawing inspiration from a pantheon of Malaysia’s national heroes—including revered figures such as Dato’ Maharaja Lela, Dol Said, Yamtuan Antah, Tok Janggut, Dato’ Bahaman, Mat Kilau, Haji Abdul Rahman Limbong, Tuanku Abdul Rahman, as well as the legendary Rentap, Mat Salleh, Antanum, and Sharif Masahor of Borneo—the collection embodies the spirit of pre-independence Malay Peninsula and Borneo warriors, symbolising courage and pride as Malaysian athletes compete on the global stage.
Above ‘The Malaya’ collection, a heartfelt tribute to Malaysia’s national heroes and warriors
‘The Malaya’ collection, a heartfelt tribute to Malaysia’s national heroes and warriors
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At the heart of this collection are two iconic traditional attires that will grace the athletes: the Baju Kurung for the women and the Baju Melayu Teluk Belanga for the men. The Baju Kurung, enhanced with a flowing headscarf, exudes timeless elegance and is tailored to complement the athletes’ poise and grace. The men’s Baju Melayu Teluk Belanga, paired with a songkok and sampin, combines comfort with a distinguished appearance, perfectly suited for the summer’s warmth. Each garment features intricate songket motifs, exclusive to Rizman Ruzaini, weaving a tale of tradition and modernity into every stitch.
The colour palette for the collection features earthy tones like browns and olive green, chosen for their classic appeal and suitability on Asian skin tones. When illuminated, these colours emit a golden hue, symbolising the nation's hope for our athletes to achieve the Olympic gold.
“For me, this inspiration is not foreign to the Rizman Ruzaini brand as we are one of the local designers who always champion the selection of our traditional cultural attire such as Baju Kurung Pahang, Baju Kurung Kedah, Baju Melayu, and Sampin. It demonstrates how fashion unites all races in a peaceful and united country like Malaysia. We have a rich history, and we want it to continue as a beautiful unification for all ethnicities,” shares Ruzaini Jamil, Creative Director of Rizman Ruzaini.
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Credits
Images: Rizman Ruzaini
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