Puan Rasta: Currently, I am focusing on supporting Malaysian batik and promoting the “Beli Barangan Malaysia” (buy Malaysian products) campaign. It’s important to support our local products, not just for economic growth and sustainability but also for other reasons. As for BatekbyRastaRashid, our next step is to embed nanotechnology into our products. I encourage all designers to be ready to embrace nanotechnology. Building awareness and developing the right mindset among designers is crucial in understanding the importance of incorporating sustainability practices, not just for the environment but also for the product development process.
[Technology and Innovation in Fashion]
Puan Rasta: The hesitation to adopt technology in garment finishing might be due to concerns about branding. When a brand becomes strong, it becomes easier to approach awareness and incorporate technology. In the fashion industry, building a strong brand is a challenge not just because of the process itself but also financially. It requires substantial investment. For some brands, they end up buying ready-made textiles from the market and producing their designs. However, it’s important to be aware that new generations are increasingly conscious of sustainability. When buyers ask about sustainability in their products, brands need to be prepared. That’s why my next step for BatekbyRastaRashid is to introduce nanotechnology into our products. I believe that raising awareness and developing the right mindset among designers is crucial. By embracing technology, we can improve the environmental impact and the product development process.
[Balancing Demands and Fast Fashion]
Puan Rasta: Studying and researching are crucial in the fashion industry. It’s not just about creating a good idea and bringing a new fashion style to the market. It’s also important to understand what consumers want. Not every consumer wants to wear red carpet outfits every day. Each designer has their own DNA and direction. For mass-produced ready-to-wear brands, I discourage excessive production. Instead, they should focus on restyling and repurposing. A simple white T-shirt can be transformed into a new crop top. The younger generations today are creative, even without a background in fashion design. They know how to use tools to create something new. Rather than focusing on mass production, designers should prioritize restyling and creativity.
Puan Rasta: I believe in not giving up and continuously thinking ahead. As a designer, I don’t limit myself to a single item or collection. During the pandemic, when people’s incomes were affected, they were looking for more affordable and practical items. I noticed that face masks were in high demand. Instead of wasting any leftover fabric, I utilized them to produce face masks. We sold over 3000 pieces in the first month. It was amazing to see how we adapted to the situation and utilized resources effectively. As designers, we need to be creative, adapt to the market, and understand what consumers want. It’s not just about self-indulgence but about meeting the needs of the market. Being an entrepreneur in the fashion industry requires stability and the ability to navigate through difficulties.
[Measuring Success and Career Advice]
Puan Rasta: For me, success is not only about being known in the industry but also about sustaining the business. Anyone can start a business, but not everyone can sustain it. When you have a strong brand and can sustain your business, that’s a measure of success.
Puan Rasta: Based on my experience, don’t be shy to start from scratch. I began as an alteration girl, helping my boss with small tasks like carrying boxes. Gaining experience is crucial. Don’t chase glamour. It will come naturally in the fashion industry. Instead, focus on hard work, learning from the right people, and gaining knowledge. Avoid jumping from one company to another; stay focused. In the fashion industry, entry-level salaries may not be high, as they are based on the quality of your work. Once you gain quality, you can name your price.
Puan Rasta: The most important quality for a fashion designer is having their own DNA, their own unique style. When you see a design by Dato’ Tom Abang Saufi or Bernard Chandran, their DNA is strong and recognizable. Similarly, BatekbyRastaRashid has its own trademark, such as the Pucuk Rebung (bamboo shoot) motif on the back of our clothes. Building a strong brand and DNA helps people identify your designs. Creativity, adaptability, and attention to detail are crucial in achieving success. As a designer, I focus on maintaining my brand’s identity while staying open to new ideas and trends. Attention to detail ensures that the final outcome meets the highest standards.
NanoTextile: That’s impressive how the DNA itself contributes to the recognition of a brand. Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We appreciate your time and valuable input.
