A Royal Encounter at Couture Fashion Week Malaysia 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, (August 29, 2025) — The glamour of Couture Fashion Week Malaysia reached new heights with the distinguished presence of His Highness YAM Tengku Sulaiman Shah Al-Haj ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj, brother of the current Sultan of Selangor.

In a gesture steeped in warmth and respect, Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Mike Chan had the honor of presenting two of his published works.

The books—“Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine: Carpe Diem – Carpe Vitam!” and “Handbook on Longevity Medicine: The Road Map,” highlight Prof. Chan’s work in anti-aging and health science.

Visibly impressed, YAM Tengku Sulaiman Shah Alhaj noted his intent to add them to his private collection.

 “I would like to present a book to you. Last year, I also had the privilege of gifting you some of my earlier works. These are for your library,” Prof. Chan remarked as he handed over the volumes.

Tengku Sulaiman Shah graciously accepted, responding: “Oh, thank you. Very interesting.”

“Proudly, for Selangor,” added Prof. Mike Chan, who has authored over 60 books in stem cells, regenerative medicine and wellness sciences.

It was a meaningful exchange that brought together science, knowledge, and royal appreciation. He later described the exchange as one of mutual warmth and respect.

This was the second meeting between the two distinguished figures, following their first encounter in December 2,  2024 at the UAE’s 53rd National Day celebration, where Prof. Chan had also gifted books.

“His Highness expressed his appreciation, noting that the volumes would be placed in his library, and warmly shook my hand. Known for his interest in healthcare, Tengku Sulaiman Shah Alhaj welcomed the exchange, which further underscored the evening’s spirit of elegance and wellness,” said Prof. Chan.

 A Royal Legacy

YAM Tengku Sulaiman Shah Alhaj is the Tengku Laksamana of Selangor and second-in-line to the throne after Crown Prince HRH Tengku Amir Shah. The son of the late Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj—Malaysia’s King from 1999 to 2001. He has served in key ceremonial roles in Selangor and is today a leading corporate figure.

His contributions include co-founding SP Setia Berhad, one of Malaysia’s most prominent property developers, and currently serving as Chairman of the Malaysia-UAE Business Council.

A Gala of Diplomacy and Style

The Couture Fashion Week Malaysia and International Gala 2025, themed “Embracing Beauty with Style and Elegance,” drew ambassadors and dignitaries from the UAE, Libya, Oman, and Azerbaijan, alongside Malaysian royalty and industry leaders.

In his opening remarks, Executive Director Ziinine Britshi welcomed distinguished guests including YAM Tengku Sulaiman Shah Alhaj, foreign envoys, and esteemed local partners. He emphasized the event’s role as a platform for cultural exchange and diplomacy, noting participation from more than 30 countries worldwide.

“This evening is a celebration of creativity, culture, and couture. With participation from around the globe, we are proud to present a platform where fashion becomes a bridge for cultural exchange and diplomacy,” Ziinine said.

His Highness YAM Tengku Sulaiman Shah Alhaj ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Alhaj’s presence  was complemented by a distinguished assembly of diplomats and dignitaries, including:

H.E. Dr. Mubarak Saeed AlDhaheri, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Malaysia; H.E. Mohamed A.M. Attia, Ambassador of Libya; Dato’ Zulfikri bin Osman, Director General of MARA; Puan Rosnani Mohd Rosdi, Deputy Director I of MARA’s Skills and Technical Division; and Zeisse Lay, Secretary to the Ambassador of Timor-Leste.

An Evening to Remember

Couture Fashion Week Malaysia 2025 offered more than a fashion showcase. It was a celebration of artistry and cultural exchange, where haute couture became a language of timeless unity.

Held at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, with the Petronas Twin Towers as its glittering backdrop, the gala transformed the ballroom into a palace of couture and culture.

A 60-foot runway and 32-foot LED backdrop framed a night of spectacle—bathed in golden light that illuminated bespoke tuxedos, floor-length gowns, and couture masterpieces.

The gala showcased designers and models from over 36 countries, with collections presented by participants from the United States, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, India, Japan, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

Among the participating designers and countries were TVETMARA, Royal Pahang Museum, and GIATMARA Higher Skills College (Malaysia); Helay Ayoub (Kandahar Market) from Afghanistan living in USA; Hanum Aidash (Kazakhstan); Akki Tokuda and Qlogo (Japan); Jaya Misra (India); Yeylie Cheng Couture (Malaysia); Tommy Cha (Malaysia); Rachi Ng By Rachel (Malaysia); OceLy (Malaysia); Pinky Tailor Couture (Malaysia); MRJ (Princess) (Philippines); and Lytha Gallery (Timor-Leste).

Guests were treated to a red carpet, runway presentations, live entertainment, an awards ceremony, and an exclusive gala dinner attended by more than 500 guests.

Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia, Mara, and international partners including the Oriental Fashion Show Paris, Japan Women’s Collection, and Tokyo Couture Fashion Week, the event underscored Malaysia’s emergence as a hub for creativity, cultural diplomacy, and sustainable innovation.

International models graced the runway in unique, multicultural ensembles that celebrated the rich tapestry of global traditions. Each outfit told a story of heritage reimagined through couture, blending artistry, innovation, and cultural pride into a truly international showcase of style.