28/05/2025

LYFE WEDNESDAY | MAY 28, 2025

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Celebrating Asean identity o Malaysian artisan weaves heritage fabrics into bags V ARIOUS fabrics that reflect the identity of a country, its cultural origins and traditional materials are being transformed into functional

Wheat, flax, rye as anti-ageing allies FRUITS, vegetables and other plants have made their way into natural cosmetics because of their many skin benefits. But what about grains? Known for their nutritional qualities, wheat, flax and rye can also be major beauty allies. From wrinkles and fine lines to firmness, these three grains are gradually making their way into the bathroom to fight the signs of ageing. Long abandoned, long forgotten, some natural ingredients resurfaced with the Covid-19 pandemic as consumers started to shun endless ingredients lists. As a result, natural beauty routines and age-old concoctions have replaced certain chemical substances, bringing back to the forefront products that are healthier for the skin and the environment, such as coffee grounds as an exfoliant, aloe vera as a moisturiser or even carrots as a radiance booster. But natural cosmetics brands have also been focusing on the virtues of certain grains, which have all kinds of benefits for mature skin. Rye for firming properties A grain closely related to wheat, rye is mainly known as a brownish flour, but it is now becoming a go-to ingredient in cosmetics. Many brands include it in their product formulas for its firming properties, which are ideal for skin that is losing tone and firmness, but also to remedy the loss of elasticity and improve healing. All of these benefits make this a grain of the future in the beauty industry, adding to the list of its many health virtues. Flax to hydrate, soothe Often dehydrated, mature skin needs to be deeply nourished to reduce the risk of wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of ageing. That is where flax comes in, and more precisely flaxseed oil, known for its soothing and moisturising properties. Rich in fatty acids, cold-pressed flaxseed oil not only nourishes the skin, but also helps to soothe it and to prevent future external aggression and skin ageing. It is a prime anti-ageing partner for mature skin as well as for dry or dehydrated skin. Wheat as great all-rounder In terms of beauty, it is without doubt – along with rice – one of the most complete cereals, targeting a wide range of skin problems. Wheatgerm oil is also highly nourishing, helping to prevent the signs of ageing while protecting the skin from external aggression and repairing damage caused by the past. This is essentially due to its regenerating properties. But it also acts on the skin’s elasticity, providing it with a whole host of active ingredients to help achieve a smooth complexion and firmer skin. – ETX Studio

art – one handmade bag at a time – with each bag a testament to Southeast Asia’s shared yet diverse identity. What began as a humble charity project in 2018 has blossomed into a cherished artisan brand, blending heritage fabrics from various countries, including those of Asean, with contemporary craftsmanship. At the heart of this initiative is Malaysian artisan Woon Huey Sy, whose mission is to celebrate and preserve the region’s textile traditions. Her creations, under the label Hueysybags, feature rich tapestries of culture namely Kelantanese tenun , Brunei songket , Thai silk, hand-dyed Malaysian batik and Pua Kumbu . “This collection is made specially for the Asean event. Each one uses a fabric that tells a story,” the artisan shared, gesturing to an array of vibrant bags on display. Among the standout pieces are those made from the Kelantanese tenun , a handwoven textile known for its intricate patterns and deep cultural roots, Brunei’s luxurious songket and the traditional Pua Kumbu , a design indigenous to Malaysia’s Sarawak region. Woon said production of the handmade bags is intentionally small-scale, with each fabric yielding only seven to 15 bags, making every piece unique and exclusive. “My goal is to show that Malaysian crafters exist and our work deserves to be seen. There are so many talented hands in this country, and we need more platforms to celebrate them,” she said. Woon’s passion is more than craft – it is about connection to culture, to community and to the stories that weave them together. Despite never having sewn before, she learned the art through video calls with a friend’s grandmother in Japan, overcoming language barriers along the way, an inspiring journey mirrored in every bag she makes. Hueysybags was among the exhibitors at a A 120-year-old Baju Kebaya Setengah Tiang , a traditional costume from Negeri Sembilan, has captured international attention after being showcased at the Russia-Islamic World Kazan Forum 2025, recently held in Kazan. The rare garment, woven from pineapple fibre, a material now seldom used, symbolises the intricate craftsmanship and rich heritage of Malay culture. More than a century old, the kebaya once belonged to a member of Negeri Sembilan’s royal family and reflects the state’s unique Adat Perpatih matrilineal customs, bringing this distinctive cultural identity onto the global stage. Tuanku Ja’afar Royal Gallery curator Mohd Khairil Hisham Mohd Ashaari said the garment’s presence at the forum resonated strongly with participants. “It is not just a piece of clothing but a representation of modesty, elegance and the values of Muslimah fashion,” he explained. The kebaya , alongside traditional accessories and songket textiles adorned

Woon holds a handmade bag at the sales and exhibition fair held at KLCC. – ALL PICS FROM BERNAMA

Production of the handmade bags is intentionally small-scale, with each fabric yielding only seven to 15 bags, making

every piece unique and exclusive.

presentations. The 46th Asean Summit, which ended yesterday, gathered leaders from the bloc’s member states to discuss regional issues, foster economic cooperation and advance the principles of inclusivity and sustainability. Kuala Lumpur also concurrently hosted the second Asean-GCC Summit and the inaugural Asean-GCC-China Economic Summit. – Bernama

sales and exhibition fair held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) in conjunction with the 46th Asean Summit. Themed “The Heritech Malaysia” – wordplay combining heritage and technology – the event offerred visitors the chance to witness live demonstrations of local craft-making, including gold thread embroidery, weaving and batik canting, and interact with digital displays and video

120-year-old kebaya takes centre stage at Russia forum

also ties into the upcoming Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026 campaign. Looking ahead, Khairil is partnering with Norsham Mohammad, founder of Miami Modest Fashion Week, to launch the South-East Asia

with Bunga Lado motifs, symbolic floral designs of the southern state, were modelled by attendees in Kazan, drawing praise and admiration.

The forum itself gathered over 20,000 delegates from 87 countries, 87 Russian federal entities and more than 40

Muslim Fashion Festival in Port Dickson in October next year. The event aims to

diplomatic missions, providing a vibrant

platform for cultural

unite

innovative

exchange. Khairil

Muslimah designers from across the region and beyond, celebrating the fusion of tradition and modernity. “We want to create a platform where modest fashion is innovative and deeply

described

the as encouraging, highlighting the potential for local reception

heritage

craft

to

reach

global markets. “Our

goal

was

sharing heritage beyond local appreciation, fostering a broader understanding and respect for diverse cultures worldwide. – Bernama Khairil highlights the potential for local heritage craft to reach global markets.

to

showcase

Negeri

connected to cultural roots. To gain recognition on a global scale, it is essential to step beyond familiar boundaries and embrace change,” Khairil said. He also emphasised the importance of

Sembilan’s cultural identity and sustain its heritage internationally,” he said, noting that this initiative

Bunga Lado accessories.