Malaysia soars once again! Malaysian student Mohammad Faris Mohd Fairusham has taken the spotlight in New Zealand, winning the “Air” category at the world-renowned World of Wearable Art (WOW) competition with his breathtaking “Wau Bulan” creation.
Faris’ breathtaking piece, titled “Wau Bulan”, captivated both the judges and the audience with its intricate craftsmanship, deep cultural symbolism, and the compelling story behind its design. His win marks not only a personal triumph but also a celebration of Malaysia’s rich artistic heritage on the world stage.
Although he recently completed his Bachelor of Commerce at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington through a twinning programme with a Malaysian university, his heart has always belonged to the world of fashion and design. His winning piece incorporated a corset made from traditional Sarawak batik, a heartfelt tribute to his birthplace and cultural roots.
The journey to creating “Wau Bulan” was far from easy. With only a limited amount of time before leaving for Colombia on a student exchange programme, Faris had to juggle his studies, part-time work, and his creative project.
Working night shifts at a hotel, he often found himself crafting the large, intricate wings of the garment during short breaks at work. “I once brought one of the wings to my workplace to finish it during my break. It was a really challenging period, but I enjoyed every moment,” he recalled with a laugh.
Behind the elegance of “Wau Bulan” lies Faris’ innovative use of materials. Most components of the costume were recycled from furniture pieces, including rattan and gold curtain trimmings. The wings were constructed from rattan stems, adorned with shimmering gold ribbons.
“The Wau Bulan itself is an art form filled with symbolism and uniqueness as a traditional kite. I wanted to bring it to life in a tangible way and infuse my design with a piece of Malaysia’s identity,” the student explained.
During the awards ceremony, Faris made a statement on stage by wearing another self-designed outfit inspired by the theme of a ‘pahlawan’. The ensemble featured elements of local culture, such as wing-like structures reminiscent of Minangkabau roofs and a collar inspired by the attire of traditional Malay warriors.
In an interview with Victoria University of Wellington, Faris shared how the experience became one of the most meaningful moments in his life. “I felt truly seen and surrounded by a community that understands the essence of art. Many people came up to me and said, ‘You’re going to be big someday.’ Those words really touched my heart,” he said.
Following his historic win, Faris plans to remain in Wellington until his graduation in December before deciding whether to pursue work opportunities or to return to the World of Wearable Art competition next year.
Source: Instagram(1)(2), Victoria University of Wellington, Siakap Keli
