Discovering Malaysia’s Elite: Top Local Streetwear Brands Dominating the Scene
From the streets of Kuala Lumpur to the fashion runways of the world—Malaysia’s streetwear scene is breaking new ground.
Malaysia’s fashion landscape is no longer woven solely with threads of traditional textiles and batik prints. Today, it pulsates with a vibrant streetwear culture, brought to life by a cadre of young designers and innovative brands actively steering the wave of global fashion trends.
This feature spotlights the best streetwear brands in Malaysia, each carving out a niche with bold designs and distinct cultural imprints that resonate on both local and international stages.
Join us as we delve into the heart of Malaysian street culture, celebrating the trailblazers who define what it means to be among the best in streetwear.
1. NERDUNIT
NERDUNIT, founded in 2013 by Malaysian designer Ronald Chew, is a streetwear brand that marries design, culture, and art. Designed in Kuala Lumpur, each collection undergoes months of meticulous crafting to meet high standards.
The brand’s philosophy, deeply rooted in the belief that “No One Ever Really Dies,” reflects its commitment to leaving a lasting legacy through fashion. NERDUNIT has collaborated with notable brands like Staple Pigeon, Be@rbrick, #FR2, and New Era, translating artistic expression into wearable art and continuously supporting the creative community.
2. TNTCO
TNTCO, established in 2013 in Malaysia, is not just a streetwear brand; it’s a creative movement inspired by daily life and societal observations. Each piece is designed with a purpose, carrying messages that critique or comment on global phenomena, making every item a statement.
Rooted in a family legacy of apparel manufacturing, co-founder Deckson draws inspiration from vintage and ’90s fashion, leading to the brand’s unique upcycling program. This initiative transforms deadstock materials into fresh, meaningful designs, blending heritage with contemporary style.
TNTCO stands out for its dedication to reinvigorating forgotten fabrics and honoring the craft passed down through generations, all while running an extensive retail operation with 15 locations nationwide.
3. STONED & CO
Stoned & Co, a beacon of Malaysian-made luxury streetwear, was established by three visionary graphic designers with a mission to fuse bold messages and minimalist designs. The brand expresses ideas on equality and peace through its clothing line.
Stoned & Co stands out as one of the select streetwear brands offering a comprehensive range for kids and babies in addition to adult apparel. Each garment is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, utilizing the finest quality materials such as their Signature 40/40 pin Interlock Cotton, known for its smooth surface and resistance to shrinkage, making it ideal for the varied Malaysian climate.
With a commitment to showcasing the richness of Malaysian art, culture, and multilingual heritage through their unique designs, Stoned & Co aspires to elevate local streetwear to global acclaim.
4. AGAINST LAB
Formed in 2015 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, AGAINST LAB represents the fusion of diverse backgrounds in retail, graffiti, and marketing, united by a passion for street culture and clothing. The brand epitomizes the underdog spirit with its mantra, “All Endeavour, No Surrender,” consistently challenging norms with limited resources.
AGAINST LAB has embarked on several high-profile collaborations, including with Tokyo’s famed sneaker boutique atmos for the ‘Year of the Dragon’ 2024 collection, and with Casio for a G-Shock model, with Tiger Beer for a Chinese New Year collection that symbolizes a blend of heritage and modern edge, all demonstrating AGAINST’s commitment to pushing cultural and design boundaries.
5. FUTUREMADE STUDIO
Futuremade Studio (FTMD.), led by Malaysian YouTube sensation Tunway Yeoh, has transcended its local boundaries to captivate a global audience, especially in Chinese-speaking regions.
This visionary Malaysian apparel brand, marries diverse cultures, recreational activities, and global exploration in its design ethos. The brand seeks to enlighten screen-focused adults about the world beyond digital interfaces by offering not just functional clothing and tools but also curating events and workshops that ignite new passions.
Celebrated collaborations include a footwear line with Vans, a creative venture with Reebok, the “COAST 2 COAST” collaboration with AGAINST LAB and OBSCR, a multi-city pop-up tour designed to blend contemporary fashion subcultures and foster community through art and lifestyle exploration and more.
6. HYPE
HYPE Clothing CO., established in 2012 in Malaysia, is inspired by the pervasive influence of classic-modern American subculture and the driven individuals at the helm of the brand. The brand’s ambition mirrors the enduring and expansive nature of the subcultures it draws from, aiming to achieve a similarly vast and lasting impact.
Notable collaborations include “The Future is Now” with Zus Coffee, “Still Happy” with Fritilldea, and a synergistic capsule collection with Zus featuring the Twelve & Timely drink series Oat’Clock, as well as a crossover with Demon Slayer, expanding its cultural footprint and creative expression.
Malaysia’s streetwear brands are a testament to the country’s thriving creative spirit and cultural richness. Each brand we’ve featured carries its own unique flair and as they continue to innovate and inspire, they cement Malaysia’s position on the global streetwear map.
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