What began as an ambitious vision ten years ago has now reshaped the heart of Alor Setar. Where an abandoned parcel of land once stood, Aman Central has risen to become Northern Malaysia’s most dynamic lifestyle destination. Over the past decade, it has sparked an urban renaissance — drawing international brands, nurturing homegrown entrepreneurs, inspiring boutique hotels and new businesses, and helping redefine Alor Setar as a vibrant modern city.
Through every fashion show, festive celebration, art installation, and community initiative, Aman Central has grown into a landmark that truly belongs to the people. It reflects the pulse of the city — a place where the spirit of Kedah is expressed with pride and where new stories are written every day.
10 Years of Aman Central, Crowned by Kedah Fashion Week 2025
I had the chance to attend the launch of Kedah Fashion Week 2025 last week, and being there in person—seeing the lights, hearing the cheers, and feeling the energy of the crowd—gave me a new appreciation for how far Aman Central has come. It was more than just a fashion event; it was a celebration of what the community has built together over the past 10 years.
This anniversary marks more than a milestone — it’s a celebration of how vision, purpose, and resilience can transform a place and shape the cultural life of a region. That spirit will be on full display this August with Kedah Fashion Week 2025, happening from August 1 to 3. This year’s edition carries the theme “Diamond” — a symbol of strength, brilliance, and timeless beauty. Just like a diamond forged through time and pressure, both Aman Central and KFW have evolved with purpose and care.
What began as a bold idea is now one of the region’s most anticipated platforms for fashion, art, and creative expression — a cultural movement that empowers local voices, elevates Northern Malaysia’s creative standing, and inspires a new generation to dream beyond boundaries.
A Journey Rooted in Community Pride
“Aman Central’s story is shaped by the dreams and spirit of the people who have walked through its doors,” said Grace Ho, Director of Belleview Group. “From the very beginning, we hoped to create a place where communities could come together, where culture and creativity would be celebrated, and where the heart of Alor Setar could beat stronger with each passing year. To see how far we have come, and to witness the pride this space now holds for the people of Kedah, is deeply meaningful for all of us.”
Since its opening in 2015, Aman Central has welcomed millions of visitors and helped shape a vibrant new chapter for Alor Setar. It has brought global brands into the city while uplifting local entrepreneurs, driving cultural tourism, and inspiring renewed pride in Northern Malaysia’s creative identity. Among its most iconic contributions is Kedah Fashion Week, launched in 2016 and now one of Malaysia’s most celebrated fashion events.
The Rise of Kedah Fashion Week
The evolution of Kedah Fashion Week mirrors the transformation of Alor Setar itself. From a local showcase to a national platform, KFW has become a place where creativity flourishes and new ideas take flight. Each year, it brings together designers, artists, media, and fashion lovers from all corners of the country — serving both as a stage for established names and a launchpad for fresh talent.
One such success story is Lokalteez, a Penang-based label that debuted at KFW 2023 and went on to open a permanent store at Aman Central — a testament to how the platform helps turn creative dreams into business reality.
“Kedah Fashion Week has grown into a space where fashion speaks of identity, ambition, and community spirit,” said Mr. Ken Chin, Assistant General Manager of Marketing Communications for Aman Central and the creator of KFW. “Each year, we see young designers, models, and creators step forward, grow in confidence, and find their voice. That’s the heart of this platform. It connects the cultural roots of Northern Malaysia with the future we’re building.”
The 2025 edition of KFW promises to be its most exciting yet. Eighteen couture designers will take the stage, joined by eleven emerging student designers from Universiti Kuala Lumpur. For the first time, an international guest designer — celebrated Thai talent Patinya — will bring regional flair to the runway.
Returning KFW alumni include bold names like Seth and Luna, Salleh Hamid, Hasfitri Yusof, Teddie Alrashed, Naemah Khuntum, Ikmal Mukmin, Wan & Mary, Fareez Axuan, YT Lim, Asyraf Arrif, and Taufik Idros. They’ll be joined by visionary designer Shanell Harun and rising talents like Isyraf Arysi, Hazizul Aziz, Helmi Hamdan, Ku Syafiq, and Liren Ho — all adding to the vibrant creative movement growing in Northern Malaysia.
Crafted Through Time, Ready to Shine
The Diamond theme of this year’s Kedah Fashion Week reflects a journey shaped by creativity, resilience, and transformation. Like a diamond forged under pressure, every facet of KFW tells a story — of tradition reimagined, of artistry passed down, and of bold design looking toward the future.
“Over the years, Kedah Fashion Week has grown from a simple idea into something that speaks to the heart of this community,” said Ken Chin. “Each collection is a reflection of stories shaped through time and experience. Like a diamond, this journey has been forged with resilience and vision. KFW 2025 will honour the progress we’ve made and celebrate the creative spirit that continues to evolve and inspire.”
A special Evolut10n showcase will honour this milestone anniversary, while Aman Central’s retail partners — including HLA, New Era, Tomei, D’yana, Elrah Exclusive, Eco Optic, Babyshop, and Watsons — will present creative runway pieces that blur the lines between lifestyle and couture.
Shaping the Future of Creative Expression
Looking ahead, Aman Central continues to expand its role as a cultural and creative anchor for Northern Malaysia. Initiatives like Face of Aman Central, launched in 2024, are driving greater diversity and inclusivity across the creative industries. The mall’s ongoing support for young entrepreneurs and emerging designers will remain central to its mission — ensuring that Kedah Fashion Week remains a platform where new talent can thrive.
“Our next chapter will be about deepening our role as a cultural and creative anchor for Northern Malaysia,” said Grace Ho. “Aman Central will continue to be a space that inspires new ideas, brings the community together with pride, and allows the cultural spirit of Kedah to shine brightly for all to see.”
As Kedah Fashion Week 2025 draws near, it stands as a powerful reflection of everything Aman Central has accomplished over the past decade. It’s a celebration of identity, creativity, and community — shaped by vision and built to inspire what’s next.
This year’s edition will also sparkle with royal glamour and star-studded appearances. Taking the spotlight are Nadeera Zaini, Hael Husaini, Amir Masdi, and Mimifly — bringing their signature presence to this dazzling celebration. Adding a touch of regal elegance, Her Royal Highness Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Che Puan Muda Zaheeda, the Raja Puan Muda Kedah, will grace all three days of the showcase — elevating the prestige of this extraordinary event.
“KFW has become part of the creative fabric of this region,” said Ken Chin. “It is a movement that continues to grow and inspire. As we celebrate this Diamond moment, we honour the journey and look forward to the many brilliant chapters still to be written.”
To learn more about Aman Central and Kedah Fashion Week 2025, please visit https://www.amancentral.com.my/.
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