Yayasan Tuanku Nur Zahirah: Songket In Fashion
Songket is a fabric that's rich within our cultural identification, though we're most likely to only use it for lavishly important ceremonial activities these days. It's distinctly handwoven in silk or cotton and patterned with metallic threads for a shimmery effect. In the wake of modernization however, this traditional craft faces dire threats in terms of sustainability, let alone growth. Which is why Yayasan Tuanku Nur Zahirah (YTNZ) is a cultural godsend.
YTNZ is a foundation that strives to improve the livelihoods of artisans, weavers and craftsmen; while continuing the legacy and traditions of the songket by facilitating, adapting, innovating and marketing it to ensure its future growth and sustainability.
It sells items commercially under the brand Royal Terengganu Songket, offering trinkets, home furnishings, shawls, even high-end wear through commissioning local and international fashion designers. The profits of which, go towards charitable support.
Designers working with songket allow it to find its place in modern day life, as well as shift perceptions of it in the fashion industry.
Pink Jambu
While some of you might go yawn and say whatever, here's why this initiative is one that's commendably wonderful: songket-weaving still exists, yes, but is only commonly practiced in certain parts of rural Malaysia. And even at that, its traditions lack innovation, which leads to its current market decline amidst globalisation.
And because songket-weaving is such a intricately skilled process, it requires a lot from its artisan - many of whom have had to give up their craft because practically, there isn't much return from it. What YTNZ does, is place opportunity into the hands of the weavers.
To read more about the cause, click here. To support the cause, do attend their upcoming fund raising dinner - the programme for the night hopes to see its guests discover songket in a different light as the evening unfolds! Invitation is by donations only - you can call Sarah or Evelyn at 03-2284 8253 for more information.
