Indonesia’s Modest Fashion Takes Center Stage at Kuala Lumpur’s IN2MF

In the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur, the latest edition of the Indonesia International Modest Fashion Festival (IN2MF), held on May 4, 2024, has made a significant impact. This event, branded as IN2MF in Kuala Lumpur Presented by Bank Indonesia, is part of the broader national economic growth initiatives by Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian government. It aims to enhance the Islamic economy and finance sectors, focusing prominently on the burgeoning Modest Fashion industry.

The festival, a brainchild of Bank Indonesia in collaboration with the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and the Indonesia Fashion Chamber (IFC), is not merely an exhibition but a cultural symphony titled “Cultural Harmony: Exploring Modest Fashion Across Asia.” It represents the third installment of IN2MF, which will conclude in Jakarta from October 30 to November 4, 2024.

Imam Hartono, Head of the Islamic Economics and Finance Department at Bank Indonesia, highlighted that the festival showcases the richness and diversity of Indonesian Modest Fashion. This year’s event in Kuala Lumpur is especially pivotal as it also dovetails with the series of Indonesia Festival activities in Malaysia, promoting Indonesian products and fostering economic ties between the two nations.

The 2024 festival in Kuala Lumpur has put a spotlight on the exquisite traditional textiles and innovative, sustainable fashion designs of Indonesia. By integrating authentic Indonesian textiles and cultural elements into contemporary fashion, IN2MF aims to offer a unique and enriching experience to the global fashion industry.

Hermono, the Indonesian Ambassador to Malaysia, expressed his pride in the event, emphasizing that it embodies the national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, or ‘Unity in Diversity.’ “I hope that IN2MF becomes a beacon of global unity and a recurring platform that showcases the vibrant cultural diversity of Indonesia through Modest Fashion,” said Ambassador Hermono.

The event also serves as a dynamic stage for the creative talents of the Indonesian Sharia Creative Industry (IKRA). Featuring leading designers like Dewi Sambi with her Batik Banten and weavings from the Badui Tribe, Haluan Bali with traditional Endek, and many others, the festival aims to propel Indonesian Modest Fashion to new heights in the global market.

Notably, this year’s event included contributions from guest designer Kalima from Malaysia, underscoring the strong collaborative spirit between the Indonesian and Malaysian Modest Fashion industries. This synergy is intended to enhance the strategic positioning of Indonesian fashion in the Southeast Asian market, particularly targeting the Malaysian consumer base.

The IN2MF in Kuala Lumpur Presented by Bank Indonesia not only promotes the artistic and cultural aspects of Indonesian fashion but also aims to catalyze Indonesian exports to the Southeast Asian region. This highlights the innovative potential and economic vitality of the modest fashion sector, reinforcing its importance in regional economic strategies.