Best shops for Malaysian-made crafts and fashion

Dumpster is anything but. If the phrase ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’ can be embodied in a name and space, Romaizie Mustapha’s store is a fine example; in a nutshell, it’s a safe space for local artists with an affinity for making Malaysiana artworks, T-shirts and more. Come through for Lina Tan and Kide Baharudin artworks, Perajin mahogany, jati and rosewood home decor, and T-shirts and tote bags featuring kuda kepang prints.

KitaKita – the Malay word for ‘us’ – supports the work of small home-based and homegrown craftsmen and producers. At its core, the folks of KitaKita are committed to fostering creativity among artisans to create crafts catering to contemporary tastes. Think bespoke Malaysian handcrafted and heritage pieces with a touch of cool: Ahnya Chi pillows, batik chokers and batik cheongsams; Emi Kaz baubles and jewellery; candles by Jasmine Gan’s Sanctuary; and cups and pottery among others.

In a neighbourhood full of dedicated designer stores (we’re looking at you, Bangsar), Fabspy champions independent, under-the- radar local and regional designers. As the story goes, the store started as an online shopping hub before setting up shop in a shopping mall. It stocks a carefully curated selection of mostly Malaysian and Singaporean designers and labels. To show your support to the #lokalah movement, shop Apothecary, Blau Grun, Good Pair, Justin Chew, Kozo, Medium Rare, Nerd Unit and Stoned & Co in-store.

The shop is a spin-off from the Agenda Lokalism campaign which aims to promote youth entrepreneurship – think of Loka as its showcase space, providing a platform for over 40 local lifestyle brands, including Ash Be Nimble for athleisure, Pestle & Mortar for streetwear swag, and Tarik Jeans for good ol’ raw denim. Also, you’ll find bath and body brands such as Beadjules, Jeanie Botanicals and The Sabun.