Malaysian Brands Archives – KTJ Malaysia

Empowering In Scent: Vixen & Cupid’s Limited Edition Pouches

admin — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 03:27:31 +0000

Vixen & Cupid x KTJ: A Collaboration

In a world filled with mass-produced goods, Vixen & Cupid invites you to celebrate their 1-year anniversary with something truly special: a limited edition pouch that encapsulates compassion and empowerment.

These exquisite pouches are not just products; they are a testament to the incredible skills and determination of the women from Komunity Tukang Jahit (KTJ).

A StitCh of empowerment

Each of these exclusive limited edition pouches is meticulously handcrafted by the talented tailors of KTJ. Their hands, guided by skill and fueled by determination, sew every stitch with love. These pouches are more than just accessories; they symbolize empowerment, pride, and resilience. Every stitch is a reminder of the extraordinary collaboration that uplifts lives and empowers women.

Limited to 100 pieces only

These limited edition pouches are truly rare, with only 100 pieces available. This exclusivity ensures that you own a piece of artistry that is not just beautiful but also meaningful.

NATURAL AROMA TABLETS

The limited edition pouches is to pack and bundle up the main character! The Natural Aroma Tablets by Vixen & Cupid, designed to infuse your surroundings with calming and refreshing scents. These tablets are crafted with love and consist solely of natural ingredients, making them suitable for mothers and newborn babies.

ARoma for every occasion

Whether it's your car, bedroom, or wardrobe, Vixen & Cupid's Natural Aroma Tablets provide a natural and soothing fragrance. The scents, including Bergamot, Ylang Ylang, Citronella, Jasmine, Rose bud, Eucalyptus, Pandan, and Lavender Powder, are carefully chosen to create a calming atmosphere. Say goodbye to synthetic fragrances, as these tablets are made without any artificial additives.

Empowering Properties of Ingredients

Camphor: Known for its ability to relieve cough, congestion, and sleep difficulties, camphor adds a therapeutic touch to the tablets.
Essential Oils: These oils work wonders in reducing melancholy and uplifting spirits, ensuring that you and your baby are surrounded by positivity and tranquility.

Get Your Vixen & Cupid x KTJ (Limited Edition Set)

What's In Included?

1x Aroma Tablet of Your Choice
1x KTJ Limited Edition Pouch

Choose Your Scent:

Choose Pouch:

GET YOURS HERE

The post Empowering In Scent: Vixen & Cupid’s Limited Edition Pouches appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

Kopitiam Series: Cherishing The Century Old Malaysian Heritage

admin — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:28:14 +0000

With the iconic month of independence coming, we want to invite all Malaysians to celebrate Malaysia's unique and cherished cultural value—the "kopitiam."

The Kopitiam holds a special place in our hearts as it embodies our country's rich heritage and traditions.

Translated as "coffee shop" in Hokkien, the kopitiam is a vibrant hub where people gather, connect, and savor the flavors of Malaysia.

However, as our society progresses and modernizes, the Kopitiam faces challenges to its survival. Many Kopitiam have made way for modern coffee chains and trendy cafes.

KTJ Kopitiam Series

Functional Bags, Kopitiam Inspired

To preserve this pristine nation's gem, KTJ introduces the all-new Kopitiam Series, hoping to bring forward the iconic and colorful of what glorious days our Kopitiam has ventured about.

We worked with aspiring local designers to come up with a Malaysian theme design to perfectly fit the brief of a Kopitiam. The printed fabric was later sewn into coin pouches and foldable tote bags.

Coin Pouch

Taking a literal concept of the famous Teh Tarik, Black Coffee, our amazing tailors turn them into utility and a fully functional coin pouch with safety zippers.

View Our Kopitiam Series

Foldable Tote Bags & Pouches

The second batch of the Kopitiam series even introduced a plateful of traditional Malaysian desserts like Angku Kuih, Kuih Seri Muka, and Kuih Tepung Pulut.

While the drinks were made into pouches, the kuihs were made into cute pocket-sized, foldable tote bags.

View Our Kopitiam Series

WHY KOPITIAM?

Kopitiam History: A Century-Old Malaysian Heritage

The Kopitiam culture in Malaysia traces its roots back to the early 20th century when Chinese immigrants brought their culinary and social customs to our shores.

The early Chinese migrants sought to recreate the familiar atmosphere of the traditional Chinese teahouses, adapting it to the local context and incorporating local flavors and ingredients.

Initially, kopitiams were modest establishments set up by Chinese immigrants as a means of livelihood.

They primarily catered to the working-class population, offering affordable and simple food and beverages.

Image Source

During the colonial era, when Malaysia was under British rule, coffee became a popular beverage among the local population, including Malays and Indians. The kopitiams served as meeting places for people from different ethnic backgrounds, promoting cultural exchange and fostering social interactions.

Over time, kopitiams evolved to incorporate influences from different cultures, resulting in a fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines. This blend of flavors contributed to the unique and diverse menu offerings that are characteristic of kopitiams today.

WHAT DEFINES A KOPITIAM?

Kopitiam Characteristics

Coffee & Tea

One of the defining features of the kopitiam is its signature beverage—the "kopi," or coffee.

Malaysians take their coffee seriously, and the Kopitiam serves up a tantalizing array of aromatic coffee concoctions.

From the robust "kopi-O" (black coffee) to the sweet "kopi peng" (iced coffee) and the frothy "kopi tarik" (pulled coffee), there is a coffee to suit every palate.

However, the kopitiam is not just about coffee. It is a treasure trove of culinary delights.

Kopitiam Food

Kopitiams offer a diverse range of dishes influenced by Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines.

From the irresistible aroma of freshly toasted bread, known as "roti bakar", to the traditional Malaysian breakfast such as "nasi lemak" (coconut rice with various accompaniments), and even the simple "half-boiled eggs" - all served with a side of nostalgia.

Traditional snacks and assorted delicacies such as "kaya toast," "chee cheong fun" (steamed rice rolls), "curry puff," and "popiah" (spring rolls) are just a few more examples of the mouthwatering offerings that grace the tables of these charming establishments.

Decor & Atmosphere

Traditional kopitiams have a nostalgic feel with wooden furniture, vintage decor, and old photographs.

Multicultural Gathering Place

Kopitiams bring people from different backgrounds together, serving as social hubs for locals to connect and enjoy meals.

Hawker-Style Dining

Customers sit at shared tables, creating a lively and communal dining experience.

The kopitiam is more than just a place to savor delicious food and beverages. It serves as a social hub, bringing people from all walks of life together.

From business meetings to casual catch-ups, Kopitiam provides an inviting space for conversations, storytelling, and forging new friendships.

They encapsulate the spirit of "muhibah," which means harmony and unity among diverse communities.

A MALAYSIAN TWIST

The Malayan Tiger

To convey the right message of empowering our community, the team alongside our designer came up with a few symbolic imageries to represent both KTJ and Malaysia.

All of our Kopitiam Series comes with Malayan Tiger and her cub illustrations, blended into the overall design. It embodies the courageous and hardworking women of KTJ.

We aim that even the intricate details would speak volumes, conveying a positive message to the public and at the same time depicting Malaysian icons.

Getting more and more people to recognize the beauty of the Kopitiam, KTJ is spreading awareness to all Malaysian to appreciate this cultural heritage that has shaped Malaysia's identity.

The kopitiam is a living testament to Malaysia's multicultural heritage. It represents a unique blend of flavors, traditions, and social connections.

Let us celebrate and support these beloved establishments, ensuring that the Kopitiam continues to be a treasured part of our cultural landscape for generations to come.

The post Kopitiam Series: Cherishing The Century Old Malaysian Heritage appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

Hand-Sewn Products: A Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

admin — Mon, 08 May 2023 08:41:06 +0000

What's a perfect Mother's Day gift?

Celebrating Mother's Day can be a special and meaningful way to show your love and
appreciation for your mother or maternal figure.

Globally celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May, it is a day to honor and appreciate
mothers, mother figures, and maternal bonds, all over the world.

Oftentimes, people plan a special outing for their mothers with the whole family. Surprise them
with brunch or picnic at the park, take them to the museum, a concert, or even to the movies.

Some people even went the extra mile to cook their mother’s favorite meal.

But the simplest thing you could do is wish them the heartiest Happy Mother’s Day,
accompanied by well-thought-out gifts that represent your gratitude towards your moms.

And we have just the gifts for you to choose from!

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Handsewn items can be a wonderful and thoughtful gift for mothers on Mother's Day. Here are some ideas:

Hand-sewn Tote Bag

A hand-sewn tote bag can be a practical and stylish gift for your mother. You can choose a fabric that suits her style and personality.

Buy now

Hand-sewn Kitchenware Set

Moms and kitchens are inseparable! Get this exclusive Kitchenware collection from KTJ, which includes:

KTJ Kitchenware Set

Apron: If your mother loves to cook or bake, a hand-sewn apron can be a great gift idea. You can choose a fabric that matches her kitchen décor or her favorite
color.
Cutlery Holders: A hand-sewn quilt can be a sentimental and cherished gift for your mother. You can choose fabrics that hold special memories or colors that she loves.
Pot Holders: Pot holders can be a useful and quick sewing project. You can sew them in your mother's favorite colors or patterns.
Coasters: Complete the sets with matching coasters, for the pots, pans,

Buy now

Tiffin Carrier Bags

A hand-sewn tote bag can be a practical and stylish gift for your mother. You can choose a fabric that suits her style and personality.

Buy now

Hand-Sewn Pouches

If your mother likes to wear headbands, you can sew one for her. You can
choose a fabric that matches her style and personality.

Buy now

Batik Yoga Mat Bag

For the fitness-first moms! Get them a stylized Batik Yoga-mat bag. Choose between exclusive artisan batik or standard batik - whichever the suits your mum best!

Buy now

Moms For Moms

All of our products are hand-sewn by Mothers from the B40 community - by gifting your mum any of our products, you will be gifting to the other B40 Mothers and their families too.

LEARN MORE

These are just a few ideas for hand-sewn items that can make great Mother's Day gifts. You can
personalize these items to make them unique and special for your mother.

Remember, the most important thing is to show your mother or maternal figure that you love and appreciate her.

Create a special and memorable Mother's Day celebration, highlighting all the sacrifices made
by our dearest mothers.

How To Celebrate Mother's Day

Create a special and memorable Mother's Day celebration, highlighting all the sacrifices made
by our dearest mothers.

Plan a special outing:

You can plan a special outing for your mother, such as a brunch or a picnic in the park. You can also take her to a museum, a concert, or a movie.

Cook her favorite meal:

If your mother loves a particular dish, you can cook it for her on
Mother's Day. You can also bake her favorite dessert.

Make a handmade gift:

You can make a handmade gift for your mother, such as a photo album, a scrapbook, or a personalized card.

Write a letter:

You can write a heartfelt letter to your mother, expressing your gratitude and love for her. You can also share some special memories or moments that you have shared together.

Give her a day off:

You can give your mother a day off from her regular responsibilities and take care of the household chores, such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry.

Spend quality time together:

You can spend quality time with your mother, doing
something that you both enjoy, such as gardening, painting, or hiking.

Gift her a special item:

You can gift your mother a special item, such as a piece of jewelry, a handbag, or a book that she has been wanting to read.

History of Mother's Day

The history of Mother's Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where maternal
goddesses were honored and celebrated. However, the modern version of Mother's Day can be
attributed to Anna Jarvis, an American activist who campaigned for a day to honor mothers after
her own mother's death in 1905.

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation officially establishing the second
Sunday in May as Mother's Day in the United States. The holiday quickly gained popularity
worldwide, and many countries now celebrate Mother's Day on the same day.

On Mother's Day, people often give cards, gifts, and flowers to their mothers or maternal figures
as a symbol of love and appreciation. It is also a time to spend quality time with family and show
gratitude for all that mothers do.

Shop For More Handcrafted Products

All of our handcrafted products are available for purchase on our sister site - RoyaleCulture.com

SHOP AT ROYALCULTURE.COM

The post Hand-Sewn Products: A Perfect Mother’s Day Gift appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

What is Batik? A Beginner’s Guide to the Art of Batik

KTJ Team — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 09:36:25 +0000

What is Batik?

Batik is a traditional art form that has been practiced for centuries in various cultures around the world. It involves using wax-resist dyeing techniques to create intricate designs and patterns on fabrics.

From its origins in ancient civilizations to its modern interpretations in fashion and design, the art of batik has played an important role in cultural heritage and continues to inspire creativity today.

History and origins of Batik

The history of batik can be traced back to ancient Egypt and China, but it is most closely associated with Indonesia, where it has been a traditional art form for over a thousand years.

The word "batik" comes from the Javanese word "amba" meaning to write and "titik" meaning dot. In Java, batik was considered a sacred art and was used in religious ceremonies and to adorn royal palaces.

The Dutch colonizers in the 19th century banned batik as a way to promote their own textile industry and it was revived as an art form again in the 20th century as a symbol of national identity.

Techniques of Batik

The process of creating a batik piece involves several steps, each of which requires a unique set of tools and materials.

Let's take a closer look at the different techniques used in batik, as well as the tools and materials required to create a successful piece.

Wax-Resist Dyeing

The first step in creating a batik piece is to apply wax to the fabric in the areas where the original color of the fabric is to be preserved. This process is known as wax-resist dyeing.

The wax is applied using a tool called a tjanting, which is similar to a pen with a small spout for dispensing the wax.

Once the wax has hardened, the fabric is submerged in dye. The wax acts as a barrier, preventing the dye from penetrating the wax-covered areas.

The wax is then removed by heating it, revealing the vibrant colors underneath.

Dye Application Technique

The wax-resist process must be repeated multiple times, each time using a different color of dye to build up the desired pattern.

The dye is typically applied with a brush or poured onto the fabric, and can be varied in color and thickness depending on the effect desired.

The fabric is then left to dry before the next layer of wax is applied.

Tools and materials used in Batik

The process of batik requires several tools and materials.

Besides the tjanting, other tools include brushes or pouring bottles for dye application, combs and stylus for creating intricate designs, and a source of heat such as a candle or gas burner to melt the wax.

Additionally, a pot to boil the wax and dye, and a place to hang the fabric to dry.

Common motifs and designs used in Batik

Batik art is characterized by a wide range of motifs and designs, each with its own unique meaning. Common motifs include plants, animals, and geometric shapes.

These designs often have symbolic meanings, such as the peony representing prosperity and the lotus symbolizing purity.

Additionally, batik designs often depict scenes from daily life, as well as traditional stories and legends.

Contemporary Batik

In recent years, contemporary batik has seen a resurgence in popularity with designers and artists interpreting the traditional techniques in new and exciting ways.

From modern fashion to interior design, batik has taken on a new form and become a popular trend in today's society.

A. Modern interpretation of traditional Batik:

Contemporary batik is a modern interpretation of the traditional technique, taking the old and giving it a new spin. Artists and designers are experimenting with different colors, patterns, and styles to create unique pieces.

The traditional method of using wax and dye is still being used but in different ways, such as using a machine to print on the fabric. The wax resist technique is adapted to new materials, such as ceramics, glass and metal.

B. Role of Batik in fashion and design:

Batik has found its way into the world of fashion and design. Designer clothing and accessories are now being created using batik fabrics, giving them an exotic touch.

Home decor items such as cushion covers, curtains, and batik kitchenwares are also being created using batik patterns and colors.

These contemporary designs have increased the popularity of batik and made it more accessible to a wider audience.

C. Efforts to preserve and revitalize the art of Batik:

Efforts are being made to preserve and revitalize the art of batik, as it is a significant part of cultural heritage.

Organizations and communities are working to promote batik and provide training to future generations.

This not only helps preserve the traditional techniques but also provides economic opportunities for those involved in the industry.

D. Batik in the digital age:

Digital technology has also played a role in the revival of batik. With the availability of digital textile printing, it is now possible to produce intricate batik designs on a large scale, and at a lower cost.

Furthermore, digital platforms and e-commerce make it easier for customers to purchase batik products, promoting the craft to a global audience.

Batik in various cultures

The art of batik has a long history and cultural significance, and it is practiced in various cultures around the world.

A. Batik in Indonesia:

Indonesia is considered the birthplace of batik, where it has been a traditional art form for over a thousand years.

Popular Indonesian Batik Designs

The Javanese people have been making batik for centuries, with the designs often having symbolic meanings and being used in religious ceremonies and to adorn royal palaces.

Today, batik is still an important part of Indonesian culture, and it is a popular choice for traditional clothing and home decor items.

B. Batik in Malaysia:

Malaysia is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and batik is an important part of that heritage.

The art of batik making is considered a traditional art, with a unique style and motifs.

The batik from Malaysia is known for its vibrant colors and bold designs. The use of batik in traditional costumes and textiles is an integral part of the Malay culture and identity.

C. Batik in Africa:

In Africa, traditional cultures such as the Ashanti of Ghana and the Yoruba of Nigeria also have a long history of using batik. These cultures use batik for ceremonial dress and to tell stories.

The traditional batik of Africa is characterized by bold, geometric designs and strong, vibrant colors.

The art of batik has been adapted to suit the needs of the people, and the motifs used in batik are often symbolic and steeped in tradition.

D. Batik in India:

India also has a long history of using batik, known as “bandhni”, in fabrics and garments.

The art of bandhni, like batik, uses the resist-dye technique and often depict scenes from daily life, as well as traditional stories and legends.

The bandhni of Gujarat is particularly well-known, with intricate designs that are highly sought-after by collectors and textile enthusiasts.

How to appreciate Batik

To truly appreciate and understand the art of batik, it is important to know how to evaluate the quality of a piece and how to care for it properly.

Additionally, incorporating batik into daily life can be a great way to appreciate and appreciate the art form on a daily basis.

A. Criteria for evaluating the quality of Batik:

When evaluating the quality of a batik piece, there are several things to consider.

The first is the precision of the wax resist. The wax should be applied in a clean, neat manner, with no smudging or bleeding.

Additionally, the colors should be vibrant and well-saturated, and the design should be crisp and well-defined.

The fabric should also be of high quality, and the stitching should be even and neat.

B. How to care for and maintain Batik:

Batik is a delicate art form and requires proper care and maintenance to ensure that it lasts for years to come.

To care for your batik piece, it's important to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can cause the colors to fade.

Additionally, it's important to avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents on the fabric, as this can damage the colors and design. Instead, it's best to hand wash the piece in cold water with mild soap and hang it to dry.

C. How to incorporate Batik into daily life:

Incorporating batik into daily life is a great way to appreciate the art form and make it a part of your daily routine. One way to do this is by using batik fabrics to create clothing and accessories. Whether it's a batik shirt, dress, scarf or bag, incorporating batik into your wardrobe can be a fun and stylish way to incorporate this art form into your daily life.

Additionally, batik can be used to add a touch of color and elegance to your home decor. From bed linens and pillow covers to curtains and table runners, batik can be used to add a unique and eye-catching touch to any room.

A lot of Malaysian and Indonesian corporate companies are also introducing batik corporate gifts as part of their way to preserve and incorporate more Batik use into daily lives.

Another way to incorporate batik into daily life is by using it as a source of inspiration for other creative endeavors. Many artists, designers and crafters have been inspired by the colors, patterns and motifs found in traditional batik.

It can be a great inspiration for your own art or design projects, or to use it as a model to create something unique of your own.

Preserving the traditional art of Batik

In conclusion, batik is a timeless and beautiful art form that can be appreciated and incorporated into daily life in many different ways.

By evaluating the quality of a piece, properly caring for it and incorporating it into your daily life you can appreciate this art form in a deeper way.

Additionally, with the resources available, you can learn more about batik and gain a deeper understanding of the artform and its cultural significance.

The post What is Batik? A Beginner’s Guide to the Art of Batik appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

Rojak Daily | BMW Malaysia Disguises Upcoming BMW Cars With Art By COVID-19 Fighters

KTJ Team — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 07:05:31 +0000

Although the real purpose of camouflage is to blend into the background, the effect becomes quite the opposite when the same is applied to a vehicle. And it looks like BMW Malaysia is well aware that camouflaged cars stand out like the star on a Christmas tree. This makes it any ‘disguised’ car the perfect vehicle to support the efforts of local businesses, volunteer groups and NGOs, namely Komuniti Tukang Jahit, Changgih Designs, INKAA and Kanoe.

Sashi Ambi, Head of Corporate Communications of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Covid-19 challenges many of us to be out of our elements, but we at BMW also saw many individuals and businesses who have pivoted to thrive in such challenging times. We are inspired by them. Collaborating with emerging local businesses, we want to highlight their individual dynamic independent spirit, their sheer determination and resilience – all of which have allowed them to rise above the adversity and challenges ahead of us.”

Each organisation have designed their own artful camouflages and will be featured on several upcoming BMW vehicles. You can spot them over the next few weeks. When you do, you can win exclusively-designed BMW merchandises created in collaboration with Komuniti Tukang Jahit, Changgih Designs, INKAA and Kanoe. More information can be had on BMW Malaysia’s Facebook and Instagram.

In the meantime, do check out the art pieces below and what it means to each organisation.

Komuniti Tukang Jahit — Empowering the B40 Women Community.Komuniti Tukang Jahit (KTJ) is a social enterprise that empowers the B40 women community consisting of single women, single mothers, the OKU group, and stay-at-home mothers. They provide certified upskill training and job opportunities for home-based tailors to earn a sustainable income through sewing orders. During the Movement Control Order (MCO), KTJ joined forces with several local non-profit organisations to help overcome the shortage of face masks for front-liners, the marginalised and underprivileged communities. KTJ taught its community of home-based tailors to sew washable, reusable, and practical face masks through online training and tutorials.The Design.The exclusive art piece designed for BMW Malaysia is inspired by Kak Azie, a founding member and seamstress with KTJ for almost two years. KTJ celebrates her commitment and determination as a woman of the household through the design, which also reflects the hearts of all the strong women and mothers fighting for a better life, especially in these challenging times. The woman with the face mask represents empowerment. At the same time, the tigress and her cub are the embodiment of a mother’s love – which prevails even through the greatest dangers. Meanwhile, the batik design which intertwines with the hibiscus serves to remind us of what a beauty Malaysia is.

Changgih Designs — Modern Fashion meets Borneon Heritage.Joanna Moss and Bethany Dawson founded Changgih Designs as two new, passionate mothers from Sabah who wanted to create crafts for their children. They were then inspired to help mothers from villages with vocational training and job opportunities. Today, the social enterprise blends the heritage of Borneo with contemporary fashion in a collection of hand-stitched handbags, wallets, scarves, accessories, masks, and wearable art made by artisans in villages across Sabah. During the pandemic, Changgih Designs also rallied other local Sabahan businesses to start a fundraiser to help the community. They dedicated funds from their Give10toSabah programme – where 10% of proceeds from sales are set aside, to purchase food bundles for families in need.The Design.The Binonduk design, featured for BMW Malaysia combines two motifs from the Rungus people of Sabah. As incredible storytellers, the Rungus people have been using traditional motifs to educate and remind their future generations of the wisdom and character traits they desire to impart on them. There are two traditional designs in the featured Binonduk artwork. The first is the small strip running down the back of the car– ‘Binonduk Peningkuku’, which shape resembles a wilting tree that easily sways following the wind. This traditional motif speaks to ‘pendirian’. It teaches the next generation to be anything but the tree. Instead, one should do the right thing, be willing to fight for what one believes in and to not be swayed by popular opinion. The second traditional design is a combination of two – the ‘Vinusak’ and ‘Binonduk Pindahamad’. It describes a bird flying sideways on a hillside, not following any direction or rules but does what it desires instead. These two designs make for a perfect combination to nurture confident leaders, as they are the artisans and sculptors of the new tomorrow.

INKAA — Celebrating People & Appreciating the Power of Storytelling.INKAA is a collaborative effort with grassroots organisations and artisans in Malaysia. They create beautiful products while promoting more understanding and communication between individuals and the people they work with. It is a brand that honours artisans and preserves heritage. INKAA sources traditional ‘batik cop’ (block batik) textiles handmade by three artisans in Terengganu, creating unique fabric designs where no two pieces are the same. INKAA is also committed to creating new opportunities for the communities by promoting sustainable income and reinvesting proceeds into empowerment projects. INKAA believes that diversity and craftsmanship should be celebrated, as does every contribution deserves appreciation. Hence, every product is hand-signed by the person who made it to connect the product to its makers.Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, INKAA continues to strive in creating not just beautiful products but creating income opportunities for the community of Mang Tha, a women-led refugee empowerment group in Kuala Lumpur. The income generated through each product sale benefited 30 to 45 women in supporting their families.The Design.With a contemporary touch, the featured design from INKAA on the new vehicle from BMW Malaysia merges traditional floral and geometrical-based motifs inspired by the Malaysian batik. The repetitive motifs reflect the terap (stamping) technique commonly used in Terengganu and Kelantan. At the same time, the arrangement of the design is primarily inspired by the ‘batik sarong’ that has been worn across generations. It consists of kepala kain (the central panel), apit kain (the vertical frame), and badan kain (the main body). Subtly incorporated into the design is INKAA’s logo, which is based on the pilcrow symbol signifying ‘the beginning of a new train of thought’.

Kanoe — Beautiful Garments from Natural Fibre.Kanoe is a homegrown brand that sets out to promote better living throughout their design and production process, ensuring that everyone involved from the beginning to the end of the process benefits from it. Kanoe’s garments are made from natural fibre and are designed in-house. The business also works with local businesses, artisans, and communities in need to promote handmade work, a healthy working environment, and a fair wage.Kanoe continues to be advocates of zero-waste ethical wear as they stay driven in creating more uniquely designed wearables, parallel with the times, such as batik face masks.The Design.The hand-stamped batik print featured on the new vehicle from BMW Malaysia represents a starry night, and hope in the darkness. This is a reminder for us to look for the light that shines brightest in the darkest hour – a reminder during these unprecedented times to always keep hope in our hearts.

The post Rojak Daily | BMW Malaysia Disguises Upcoming BMW Cars With Art By COVID-19 Fighters appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

Malaysian Government Announces First Group of Social Enterprises to Get Accredited

KTJ Team — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 06:45:21 +0000

The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development & Cooperatives (MEDAC) efforts to promote the social enterprise movement has received a boost with the ministry recently announcing 22 social enterprises who have received the Social Enterprise Accreditation (SE.A). This is a new national certification that provides social enterprises with recognition and a means to communicate their commitments on social and environmental impact. SE.A is a collaborative effort between MED and Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre (MaGIC) as well as Institut Koperasi Malaysia, INSKEN, SME Bank, SME Corp, Suruhunjaya Koperasi Malaysia, and YayasanBank Rakyat.

The announcement comes after the launch of the Social Enterprise Accreditation Guideline by MED in April 2019. The guideline which is a step-by-step playbook to facilitate social entrepreneurs through their accreditation process also provides clarity on the definition of “social enterprises”, highlights the types of social enterprises and the various business models that can be adopted, discusses the benefits of being registered or recognised as a social enterprise, provides a detailed list of the accreditation criteria and a deep dive into the process to get accredited.

According to MED, SE.A has received applications from 202 social enterprises (SE Basics) who are keen on obtaining accreditation. Interested social enterprises will have to register themselves as a SE Basic where they declare themselves as a social enterprise who meets all requirements to become a social enterprise. Only then can the social enterprise apply for national accreditation.

The three main criteria to obtain the accreditation are:

Have a clearly stated social or environmental goal;
Allocate a significant amount of resources towards that goal and
Be financially sound

The MED’s hope is that the national accreditation will enable social enterprises to attract talent and win businesses by standing out as an ethical choice in a crowded market. The accreditation also allows for social enterprises to be listed on a public directory on MED’s website which lists all social enterprises who have received the accreditation, impact indicators of the social enterprises, and quarterly reports on their impact performance aside from being the ‘go-to’ platform for other social entrepreneurs to seek guidance and information about social entrepreneurship.

Accredited social enterprises will be able to access various capacity-development programmes under the Pemangkin Usahawan Sosial Hebat (PUSH) initiative which will also enable social enterprises to apply for grants of up to US$24,475 (RM100,000) that will aid in the scaling of their businesses through micro-franchising opportunities to elevate the B40 community and maximise social or environmental impact.

Furthermore, the accreditation allows social enterprises to connect with potential customers, use the social enterprise accreditation mark to validate its status and boost credentials, get access to funding opportunities and join a network of Malaysia’s leading social entrepreneurs to drive social or environmental change. Full list of benefits can be obtained here (note that the information is in Bahasa Malaysia).

Commenting on the development, MED Minister, Mohd Redzuan Yusof said, “We are excited to announce the list of the 22 social enterprises who have received accreditation status and are looking forward to accrediting 40 more social enterprises this year. This is part of efforts at MED to make apparent the beneficial impact social procurement brings; to the private and public sector players who choose to procure from social enterprises, to the beneficiaries of the social enterprises including those who are differently-abled, the B40 community as well as underprivileged communities and to the social enterprises themselves. Social procurement catapults the growth and maximise impact in helping the nation fulfill goals of enhancing inclusiveness towards an equitable society, pursuing green growth for sustainability, accelerating human capital development, and improving well-being for all Malaysians which also contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I urge all social enterprises in the country to submit your application to receive accreditation to maximise impact and grow your business.”

The 22 accredited social enterprises include APE Malaysia; Athena; Biji Biji Initiative; Dialogue in the Dark Malaysia; Earth Heir; Drop & Wash; Eats, Shoots & Roots; EPIC Homes; Generating Opportunities for Learning Disables (GOLD); Komuniti Tukang Jahit; Langit Collective; MaidEasy; Masala Wheels; Me.Reka; MYReaders; Nazkids; Projek 57; Seven Tea One; Silent Teddies; Suri; Tanoti and WormingUp.

For 2020 MED is aiming to accredit 40 more social enterprises by channeling efforts to intensify awareness as well as promote social entrepreneurship across Malaysia through outreach initiatives and capacity-development programmes.

Social enterprises keen on being accredited can view the Social Enterprise Accreditation Guidelines (information is in Bahasa Malaysia) or contact MaGIC’s Social Entrepreneurship Development team at 603-83244800 for further information.

The post Malaysian Government Announces First Group of Social Enterprises to Get Accredited appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

AirAsia | 5 Malaysian Social Enterprises to Support This Eid

KTJ Team — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 06:03:40 +0000

SINGAPORE: As Malaysia moves into a new phase of its coronavirus, with the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) set to continue until the end of 2020, fatigue in the country is setting in.

Malaysians generally understand and support these stringent measures to curb the risks of a spread, after witnessing second waves of infections across the world.

But frustration is a sentiment hard to countenance when sporting events play to empty venues and entertainment venues remain shut.

In this context, it’s worth remembering how far the country has come and how COVID-19 has demonstrated cohesiveness among Malaysians.

THE SCARE OF A SUPER-SPREADER EVENT

Malaysia’s tribulation began six months ago when it experienced a spike in COVID-19 cases starting from Mar 15, with more than 100 new infections per day.

Most of the surge in infections were traced to a 16,000-strong religious event held in the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur organised by the Islamic missionary group Tabligh Jamaat.

Not long after Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin was sworn in, the Malaysian government moved swiftly to impose the Movement Control Order (MCO) on Mar 18 and ramped up healthcare and testing capacities.

The MCO made the sum difference in bringing the spread to heel, along with the willingness of businesses, communities and Malaysians to comply. Within two months the reproduction rate of COVID-19 declined spectacularly from the initial 3.5 to 0.3.

While COVID-19 would not have been contained without a strong, effective government response, Malaysians from all walks of life also actively contributed in tackling the health crisis through a series of bottom-up initiatives and brought hope to the marginalised in society.

NGOS ROSE TO HELP WITH MASKS

As COVID-19 intensified, the demand for face masks surged with three-ply surgical masks rising to RM2 a piece in late March.

While the Malaysian government imposed an export ban and a price ceiling, civil society groups moved into action to help supply low-income Malaysians, particularly large households.

Non-government organisation (NGO) Yayasan Kebajikan Suria Johor Bahru (YBS) started an initiative to deliver face masks and other essential food supplies to needy residents in Johor Bahru, and had distributed close to RM600,000 worth of financial aid, infant formula and food packets as of end June.

By end-March, even more NGOs and social enterprises got together to form a network of tailors who worked to sew and deliver cloth masks when national supplies started to dwindle, spearheaded by Komuniti Tukang Jahit, SUKA Society and Caremongering Malaysia Community.

UNCLOGGING BARRIERS TO ECONOMIC AID

Malaysians also moved to help those economically disenfranchised, whose livelihoods and access to daily necessities were impacted by the10km travel radius imposed by the MCO.

While the Malaysian government had devised various assistance programmes and cash handouts to aid struggling low-income households, about 8.2 million, including marginalised communities comprising the Orang Asli, migrants and refugees, were excluded from such schemes where many were not registered with agencies disbursing aid, according to researchers Bridget Welsh and Calvin Cheng in an April opinion piece in Malaysiakini.

For those eligible, access to physical aid was also a chief problem for rural areas given the challenges of poor digital and physical connectivity.

Local administrative networks were weak, with the Perikatan Nasional state officials for Johor, Perak and Melaka only assuming their positions in early March, leaving a gap between the initial outbreak of the coronavirus and the appointment of village heads who typically play an important role in implementing governmental assistance schemes.

A mini crisis had erupted when Defence Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced in end-March that the Welfare Department would be taking over distribution of aid, working with the Malaysian Armed Forces and the People’s Volunteer Corps.

Their limitations were quickly made apparent, as the department became overwhelmed with phonecalls from thousands of Malaysians stranded without assistance. Mr Ismail’s directive was rescinded within days.

FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES FACING ECONOMIC HARDSHIPS GET AID

Indeed, it was NGOs and citizen-led initiatives, with the networks, intelligence and the ability to mobilise untapped resources that arrested the precarity of Malaysia’s most vulnerable population groups.

Kelab Alami Mukim Tanjung Kupang in Gelang Patah for instance, launched a Big Fish Bailout, buying excess catch from fishermen who used to sell a sizeable share to restaurants but saw a sharp decline in business and plummeting incomes with the onset of MCO.

These were delivered to homes, shelters and low-income families in Johor Bahru, in collaboration with other NGOs in the Iskandar Malaysia Social Heroes Network.

Since April, a COVID-19 Orang Asli Fund, established as a joint project between three Malaysian-based NGOs namely the Center for Orang Asli Concerns (COAC), Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur and Impian Malaysia. The fund disbursed food assistance to indigenous people who faced barriers in selling their rubber and palm oil produce and could not afford food supplies and other necessities during the MCO.

NGOs also became platforms for local businesses, foundations and expatriate communities to plug in to sponsor aid and support existing schemes like the MyKasih food aid programme, which raised RM3 million by April.

SMALL ACTS OF KINDNESS

These actions demonstrate the powerful role Malaysian civil society has played in helping the vulnerable during these trying times.

Yet sometimes it’s also small acts of kindness that can lift the human spirit. Recent stories in The Star in August of a couple living near Penang who decided to clear their streets of mask litter each week and the 34-year-old man who helped his elderly neighbour do her groceries show Malaysians have a big heart and want to do their part to help others.

Tales shared by netizens over social media via the trending hashtag #KitaJagaKita have been heart-warming.

The challenge is far from over, as the virus continues to strain every thread in the fabric of society and test how communities around the world will respond when confidence in longstanding practices and national institutions is shaken.

But Malaysians can take comfort in their collective response thus far to this existential threat.

The post AirAsia | 5 Malaysian Social Enterprises to Support This Eid appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.

Yahoo News | Malaysian Brands to Fuel Your Modern Batik Obsession

KTJ Team — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:59:51 +0000

Malaysian brands to fuel your modern batik obsession

KUALA LUMPUR: The scarcity of face mask supplies in the country has prompted non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and local social enterprises to team up to help the community tackle the problem.

Komuniti Tukang Jahit (KTJ), Persatuan Kebajikan Suara Kanak-Kanak Malaysia (SUKA Society), and Caremongering Malaysia Community (CMC) have joined hands to tailor cloth-based face masks for those in need, especially those in the food delivery services as well as the public.

KTJ’s Chief Executive Officer and founder Yap Sue Yi stressed that the face masks are non-regulation and that they were not targeted at healthcare frontliners.

“The idea was to tailor cloth-based face masks that are washable, reusable, and practical. The cloth-based face masks are also tailored to be lightweight and have pockets for changeable tissue for short-time filtration.

“We believe acting upon this idea is more like a quick response for volunteers and individuals in the essential services, who are in need of reliable face masks since the supply of regulated N95 and three-ply face masks are either limited or out of stock.

“And at the same time, we want to help the community, especially the stay-at-home mothers from B40 communities through job creations from this small effort,” Yap said in a statement.

The project kickstarted with 100 pieces of face masks to be distributed for the first batch. The production numbers would be ramped up gradually to cater to new demands from other NGOs in the future.

The collaboration has taken aboard all safety measures in terms of the masks’ distribution to ensure they are complying with the regulation set during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period.

“In terms of distribution, we have come up with the safest and least human-to-human contact delivery plan. We take into account the need for social distancing too,” Yap said.

The volunteer tailors are equipped with sewing skills through online training and tutorials. The sewing kit, which includes fabrics and other materials for the home-based tailors, was delivered to their doorstep.

Once the masks are ready to be distributed, the tailors would alert the person in charge to pick it up from their doorstep for distribution.

“We are open to collaborations with any local social enterprises out there as we believe this is the time to give back to our society through any resources or help that we can provide,” Yap said.

The post Yahoo News | Malaysian Brands to Fuel Your Modern Batik Obsession appeared first on KTJ Malaysia.