Latest news with #UniversitiKualaLumpur
The Star
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
CREATIVE IDENTITY ON FULL DISPLAY
THE northern region's fashion calendar reached its pinnacle once again with the return of Kedah Fashion Week 2025 (KFW25), which unfolded from Aug 1 to 3 at Aman Central, Alor Setar. This year's edition was more than a fashion show – it celebrated identity, creativity and cultural pride, marking the 10th anniversary of Aman Central, a landmark that has transformed Kedah's urban and cultural scene. Creative spark Since 2015, Aman Central has grown into Kedah's leading retail and lifestyle hub, championing local culture, emerging talent and Alor Setar's place in Malaysia's fashion scene. Over the past decade, it became a driver of innovation and inclusivity, uniting global brands with local artisans. KFW reflected this spirit – a cultural platform that uplifted northern Malaysia's creative identity. This year's theme, Evolut10n, celebrated 10 years of style and impact. KFW had evolved from a local showcase into a national and now international stage, drawing designers, artists, media and fashion enthusiasts from near and far, while nurturing the next generation of creative talent. 'KFW has grown into a space where fashion speaks of identity, ambition and community spirit,' said Aman Central marketing communications assistant general manager and KFW creator Ken Chin. 'Each year, we see young designers, models and creators stepping forward, growing in confidence and finding their voice. 'That is the heart of this platform. It connects the rich cultural roots of northern Malaysia with the future we are building – and it helps place this region on the creative map of the country.' This year's edition of KFW was its most exciting yet, featuring 24 visionary couture designers and 11 emerging talents from Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL). Adding an international flair, Thai designer Patinya joined the lineup. Returning KFW alumni such as Seth and Luna, Salleh Hamid, Hasfitri Yusof, Teddie Alrashed, Naemah Khuntum, Ikmal Mukmin, Wan and Mary, Fareez Axuan, YT Lim, Asyraf Arrif and Taufik Idros will present alongside Shanell Harun and rising stars like Isyraf Arysi, Hazizul Aziz, Helmi Hamdan, Ku Syafiq and Liren Ho. The inclusion of Asian Designers Guild alumni – Yani Bakhtiar, Nancy, Casalwa, Nurul, Kalai and Gilbert – brought fresh energy, reflecting the dynamic growth of northern Malaysia's fashion and creative movement. Retail renaissance KFW continues to be a vital driver of Kedah's fashion ecosystem, contributing significantly to the state's economy and tourism. Beyond the glamour of the runway, its influence extends to job creation, entrepreneurial growth and the expansion of lifestyle retail at Aman Central. This year, Aman Central reaffirmed its role not just as host of Kedah's premier fashion event, but as a destination enriching the shopping experience for loyal patrons and new visitors alike. By cultivating a vibrant retail environment and positioning itself as a fashion-forward hub, KFW has played a strategic role in attracting premium tenants and strengthening the mall's commercial appeal. These developments have helped establish Aman Central as a key centre for cultural expression, business opportunity and style innovation in northern Malaysia. For the first time, children's fashion took centre stage as Babyshop opened KFW25 with a charming showcase that combined comfort, playfulness and trend-forward style. The event also welcomed the return of D'Yana and Elrah Exclusive, both offering fresh takes on Muslimah and men's fashion. Tomei impressed with demi-fine jewellery for refined tastes, while HLA introduced sleek menswear with global influence. Streetwear energy came from New Era and Eco Optic debuted a sustainable eyewear line, blending eco-conscious design with modern appeal. Adding depth, fashion students from UniKL presented a culturally inspired collection that reimagined heritage through a youthful, contemporary lens. Together, these showcases delivered a compelling experience that celebrated the fusion of culture, commerce and creativity – reaffirming KFW's place in Malaysia's evolving fashion narrative. Inspiring journey KFW25 remained as much about community and interaction as it was about couture – a platform where fashion was celebrated not only on the runway but also through shared moments with the audience. The excitement was amplified by celebrity appearances and VIP guests who brought star power and charisma. Among them were Nadeera, Hael Husaini, Amir Masdi and Mimifly, whose presence added glamour to the dazzling affair. With its seamless blend of fashion, tradition and celebrity, KFW25 reaffirmed its place as more than a fashion show – it stood as a reflection of Kedah's evolving identity and growing national influence. Chin said, 'We aimed for a bold and grand return this year, setting the stage for our fashion brand tenants while spotlighting a talented mix of both international and local designers.' KFW25 was made possible through the support of key collaborators and partners, including Belleview Group, Watsons, Aurum Theatre, Lee Motors, Frazel Heritage Hotel, StarCity Hotel, Nitori, BabyShop, D'yana, Eco-Optic, Elrah Exclusive, HLA, New Era, Tomei, Being Juice, BT Haus Retreat, The Place Steak House, Clover Hair and Make-up, Zoomix, Visual Art Deco Sdn Bhd, Barbara Flower Shop, UniKL, Graphicpal, Zoomix Kids, Goodnite, Levi's, Swarovski, ecoBrown's, Grab and ODDO. Their invaluable contributions continue to elevate KFW into a world-class celebration of fashion, creativity, culture and style. To learn more, visit or follow Aman Central on social media.
The Star
27-07-2025
- The Star
Public transport users feel safer with seat belt ruling
The wearing of seat belts is now compulsory in express and tour buses. — Filepic THE enforcement of seat belt use for passengers and drivers on express and tour buses nationwide has received positive feedback. A French tourist, who wished to be known as Farida and was travelling around the country with her husband and three daughters, gave it a thumbs up. 'In our country, it is not mandatory to wear seat belts on city buses and as such, we forgot to fasten up when we arrived in Malaysia. 'It is always good to use the seat belt as it can save lives,' she told StarMetro while waiting for a bus at the Larkin Sentral bus terminal in Johor Baru. Human resource executive Yap See Wei, who commutes between Johor Baru and her workplace in Singapore, described it as a positive step. 'Wearing a seat belt can ensure passengers are not flung out in the event of an accident. 'I always fasten my seat belt, especially for long-distance travel.' She also suggested that stricter action be taken against repeat offenders. Polytechnic student S. Theivaanaath, who was travelling back to Seremban with his sister after a term break, also welcomed the enforcement. Yap (left), pictured with her sister says she feels safer now that the seat belt ruling has been enforced. 'I think it is for everyone's safety. When we wear seat belts, we can reduce the chances of serious injuries or death during an accident. 'Even the bus driver wore a seat belt and reminded us, too. 'So, I think the enforcement is working,' he said, adding that it should be continuous. Universiti Kuala Lumpur student Siti Noorsyahirah Mohammad Yusof said authorities should focus on the conduct of bus drivers. 'I take long-distance express buses weekly to return to my hometown in JB and I have seen drivers playing games, making loud video calls at night on their phones and even hurling insults at other motorists. 'Passengers can be fined for not wearing seat belts but what about the drivers? 'Shouldn't they face stricter consequences since they are the ones who drive recklessly and cause accidents?' She also shared her frightening experience during a trip returning from her campus in Kuala Lumpur to Johor Baru. 'We were all sleeping when suddenly, there was a strong, burning smell. 'A passenger at the back started shouting to alert the driver. 'At first, he ignored it. Only after a while did he stop to check on the vehicle's condition. 'Everyone had been worried that the bus would catch fire if the driver did not stop to inspect the source of the burning smell.' It was reported that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) had enforced the installation and use of seat belts for all express and tour buses starting July 1. This is in line with Motor Vehicles (Seat Belts and Child Restraint Systems) Regulations 1978 Amendment (2008). For the first offence of not wearing a seat belt, the fine is RM2,000 or a jail term of not more than six months.
The Star
21-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Showcasing local talents
Graceful evening wear designed by Hasfitri Yusof (left). Kedah Fashion Week (KFW) 2025 is set to showcase 18 couture designers for its 10th edition. This year's lineup will also feature well-known Thai designer Patinya, alongside 11 up-and-coming student designers from Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL). Organised by Aman Central, a mall in Alor Setar, Kedah, the event aims to showcase local talents. Designer Asyraf Ariff (left) is inspired by Malay fashion. Kedah Fashion Week 2025 will take place at Aman Central from Aug 1 to 3. This year, the theme is 'Diamond'. Aman Central marketing communications assistant general manager Ken Chin said the theme was chosen as it represented the pressure that designers go through before coming out with clear, strong and brilliant designs, just like a diamond. Chin said the event also gave the community a reason to gather, celebrate local fashion talents and take pride in the event happening in the state, which was not known for its high fashion. 'When families come to watch, they see local culture and creativity reflected in them. 'When young people attend, they see a path they can take for themselves. 'For local brands and entrepreneurs, KFW sparks new ideas and confidence to grow further,' he said at a press conference to announce the upcoming KFW 2025 at The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur. Chin said sustainability was a key component of KFW 2025. He said some designers would be using upcycled materials, as well as heritage techniques, to show that fashion can honour both creativity and care for the planet. 'Some of our young designers from UniKL are working with fabric remnants to create new pieces, turning waste into value,' he said. Aman Central developer Belleview Group director Grace Ho, who was present at the event, said the vision behind building the mall was to bring a fresh vibrancy to Alor Setar. 'We want Aman Central to grow as a place where people gather, where businesses find opportunities and where culture and creativity can thrive together. 'We want KFW to serve as a platform where Kedah's creative voice can be heard far beyond its borders, while remaining deeply rooted in the stories and traditions that have shaped it. 'We hope young designers will feel that their work matters and their ideas have a home here,' she said.
The Star
25-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Geopolitical tensions, abrupt airspace closures keep Malaysian and global airlines on high alert
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's aviation sector is on high alert, prioritising safety to avoid a repeat of the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 more than a decade ago. The heightened caution follows a wave of airspace closures by Arab states after Iran launched a missile strike on a United States (US) base in Qatar. Qatar, one of the region's busiest aviation hubs, temporarily closed its airspace on Monday evening in response to the attack, as geopolitical tensions intensified amid the military conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel. Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology economist (aviation and aerospace), Associate Professor Mohd Harridon Mohamed Suffian, said the attacks and ongoing tension in the region posed a significant risk to national carriers and other local aviation operators. Endau Analytics founder and aviation analyst Shukor Yusof also warned that Southeast Asian airlines are highly vulnerable, as they rely on Middle Eastern airspace for Europe-bound flights. Mohd Harridon said Southeast Asian carriers may be forced to reroute westward flights. Understandably, the development has raised concerns among regional carriers, including Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia X , as the conflict could significantly affect flight operations and safety. AirAsia X focuses on destinations within Asia and Australia, but its seasonal flights from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah and Medina typically pass through the Southern Gulf region Dubbed the gateway to the world, Qatar Airport reportedly serves over 360,000 flights and 30 million passengers every year. "The risk could extend into other realms, such as economic downturn, a decline in financial stature, and a slowdown in trade and commerce," Mohd Harridon told Bernama in response to the Middle East conflict, especially following Iran's missile strike on a US base in Qatar. Other Arab states have followed suit in closing their airspace. Bahrain confirmed a suspension of air navigation due to escalating regional volatility, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iraq and Oman have implemented similar measures. Local Airlines Prioritise Passengers' Safety Malaysia Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to safety, stating that all flights are subject to ongoing risk assessments in light of regional tensions affecting parts of Middle Eastern airspace. "We remain guided by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and other global aviation authorities to ensure the safety of airspace used in operations. "All flight routes are evaluated using real-time intelligence, global security reports, notices to airmen (NOTAMs), and continuous surveillance via the airline's SATCOM-enabled flight monitoring system,' Malaysia Airlines said. The national carrier added that it remains vigilant and will implement necessary operational changes-including rerouting or suspensions-if required, as the safety of passengers and crew remains its utmost priority. Similarly, AirAsia X confirmed it is closely monitoring developments and will adhere to all necessary safety procedures. Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed that several Malaysian flights to the Middle East have been cancelled following the missile strike on the US military base in Qatar yesterday. Operational Costs Expected to Rise from Rerouting Mohd Harridon said the affected region is a key corridor for flight traffic. "Any diversions would entail an increase in operational costs due to higher fuel consumption during flights.' He said the additional distance covered during flights would also be a point of contention, as this would increase flight duration and require rescheduling of timetables. "There is a possibility that the conflicted area, especially coastal regions, could become constricted in terms of movements and overflight access. This would create a domino effect, with notable ripple impacts. "The restriction of trade, particularly fuel, would increase financial pressure on the logistical supply chain and affect other areas around the Middle East that are prone to closure due to the expansion of offensive attacks. This would further erode the economic vibrancy of the aviation industry,' he said. Geopolitical Volatility Reshaping Air Travel Endau Analytics's Shukor warned that the current conflict signals a deepening of a longstanding risk corridor. "The real risks from geopolitics to airlines began over 10 years ago when MH17 was blown up. What we are seeing today is a further extension of the breakdown in international relations,' he said. Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 - en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17, 2014 - was shot down while flying over eastern Ukraine. "We live in very uncertain times. Airlines will be cautious about reinstating flights until there is stability. In my opinion, there won't be calm for the next three-and-a-half years,' he said. He said prolonged instability would severely hurt the balance sheets of airlines and could reshape how people travel globally, with a shift away from intercontinental travel towards more regional options. Mohd Harridon said the financial structures of airlines should be economically aligned in order to diminish the repercussions of these headwinds. "Bear in mind, the frequency of westbound flights is significant, and thus the economies of scale are heavily depleted and would take a considerable amount of time to recover. "Mitigation plans should be in place by these airlines to optimise flight operations, and adherence to lean operations is both an economic and financial obligation,' he added. - Bernama
The Sun
25-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysian airlines on high alert amid Middle East airspace closures
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's aviation sector is on high alert, prioritising safety to avoid a repeat of the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 more than a decade ago. The heightened caution follows a wave of airspace closures by Arab states after Iran launched a missile strike on a United States (US) base in Qatar. Qatar, one of the region's busiest aviation hubs, temporarily closed its airspace on Monday evening in response to the attack, as geopolitical tensions intensified amid the military conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel. Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology economist (aviation and aerospace), Associate Professor Mohd Harridon Mohamed Suffian, said the attacks and ongoing tension in the region posed a significant risk to national carriers and other local aviation operators. Endau Analytics founder and aviation analyst Shukor Yusof also warned that Southeast Asian airlines are highly vulnerable, as they rely on Middle Eastern airspace for Europe-bound flights. Mohd Harridon said Southeast Asian carriers may be forced to reroute westward flights. Understandably, the development has raised concerns among regional carriers, including Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia X, as the conflict could significantly affect flight operations and safety. AirAsia X focuses on destinations within Asia and Australia, but its seasonal flights from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah and Medina typically pass through the Southern Gulf region Dubbed the gateway to the world, Qatar Airport reportedly serves over 360,000 flights and 30 million passengers every year. 'The risk could extend into other realms, such as economic downturn, a decline in financial stature, and a slowdown in trade and commerce,' Mohd Harridon told Bernama in response to the Middle East conflict, especially following Iran's missile strike on a US base in Qatar. Other Arab states have followed suit in closing their airspace. Bahrain confirmed a suspension of air navigation due to escalating regional volatility, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iraq and Oman have implemented similar measures. Local Airlines Prioritise Passengers' Safety Malaysia Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to safety, stating that all flights are subject to ongoing risk assessments in light of regional tensions affecting parts of Middle Eastern airspace. 'We remain guided by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and other global aviation authorities to ensure the safety of airspace used in operations. 'All flight routes are evaluated using real-time intelligence, global security reports, notices to airmen (NOTAMs), and continuous surveillance via the airline's SATCOM-enabled flight monitoring system,' Malaysia Airlines said. The national carrier added that it remains vigilant and will implement necessary operational changes—including rerouting or suspensions—if required, as the safety of passengers and crew remains its utmost priority. Similarly, AirAsia X confirmed it is closely monitoring developments and will adhere to all necessary safety procedures. Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed that several Malaysian flights to the Middle East have been cancelled following the missile strike on the US military base in Qatar yesterday. Operational Costs Expected to Rise from Rerouting Mohd Harridon said the affected region is a key corridor for flight traffic. 'Any diversions would entail an increase in operational costs due to higher fuel consumption during flights.' He said the additional distance covered during flights would also be a point of contention, as this would increase flight duration and require rescheduling of timetables. 'There is a possibility that the conflicted area, especially coastal regions, could become constricted in terms of movements and overflight access. This would create a domino effect, with notable ripple impacts. 'The restriction of trade, particularly fuel, would increase financial pressure on the logistical supply chain and affect other areas around the Middle East that are prone to closure due to the expansion of offensive attacks. This would further erode the economic vibrancy of the aviation industry,' he said. Geopolitical Volatility Reshaping Air Travel Endau Analytics's Shukor warned that the current conflict signals a deepening of a longstanding risk corridor. 'The real risks from geopolitics to airlines began over 10 years ago when MH17 was blown up. What we are seeing today is a further extension of the breakdown in international relations,' he said. Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 – en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17, 2014 – was shot down while flying over eastern Ukraine. 'We live in very uncertain times. Airlines will be cautious about reinstating flights until there is stability. In my opinion, there won't be calm for the next three-and-a-half years,' he said. He said prolonged instability would severely hurt the balance sheets of airlines and could reshape how people travel globally, with a shift away from intercontinental travel towards more regional options. Mohd Harridon said the financial structures of airlines should be economically aligned in order to diminish the repercussions of these headwinds. 'Bear in mind, the frequency of westbound flights is significant, and thus the economies of scale are heavily depleted and would take a considerable amount of time to recover. 'Mitigation plans should be in place by these airlines to optimise flight operations, and adherence to lean operations is both an economic and financial obligation,' he added.
