Known for its creative power behind the modern revival of Chanel, the iconic French fashion house, KARL LAGERFELD, will soon make an indelible mark in Malaysia’s historical city of Melaka. Thanks to the visionary developer Sheng Tai International Sdn Bhd, the fashion brand will soon stand tall on our shores with the establishment of the KARL LAGERFELD Tower at The Sail Melaka, marking a pivotal milestone for the heritage city as well as Malaysia’s fashion and hospitality industries.
The KARL LAGERFELD Tower will comprise a hotel and branded residences, and it’s the first KARL LAGERFELD Hotel in Southeast Asia. Led by the Chairman and President of Sheng Tai International, Dato’ Leong Sir Ley, the prestigious project sets to establish Melaka’s position as a vibrant and thriving Fashion City in the region.
“Making Melaka a centre for fashion, while leveraging the city’s uniquely rich heritage and culture, is our vision. Our long-term goal is to not only nurture local talent, but also welcome global investments, creating a wave of opportunity and prosperity in the country. We’re delighted to have KARL LAGERFELD and their forward-looking ethos on board with our plans for the future,” said Dato’ Leong.
The official announcement of the KARL LAGERFELD Tower was made during an exclusive event at Encore Theatre Melaka, recently. The gala was graced by the Chief Minister of Melaka, YAB Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, and Pier Paolo Righi, the Chief Executive Officer of KARL LAGERFELD, who flew in for the event.
The evening was a spectacle of artistry and entertainment, showcasing a cultural fashion show, traditional Gamelan and musical performances by Noryn Aziz and Dennis Lau, a moving piano performance by the Iron Lady of Property herself, Dato’ Leong, alongside a mesmerising hologram and drone show, resounding drums, and spectacular artistry with water, all of which culminated in a grand display of fireworks that lit up the city skyline.
Pier Paolo Righi expressed his excitement over the partnership, highlighting the French brand’s involvement in the realisation of a profound dream and an expansive vision. He noted that both the legendary designer, the late Karl Lagerfeld, and their esteemed house have always been driven by the belief of embracing the present and inventing the future.
The Sail Melaka is part of Dato’ Leong’s ambitions for the state’s future as an international hub for fashion, wellness, AI, art and culture. Spanning 165.5 acres of prime real estate in Melaka, from the combined developments of The Sail at 27.5 acres and the 138 acres of land where the Encore Theatre sits, the entire development forms the City of Hope.
According to Dato’ Leong, the hotels and Experiential Centre will be located at The Sail, while lifestyle entertainment will be held on the site which Encore occupies. This extraordinary project sets the tone for Melaka’s future, where creativity and luxury converge in a dynamic and inspiring environment. It also serves as a testament to the city’s vision and its emergence as a true Fashion City in Southeast Asia.
