It is not an easy feat for our models to sketch names on the global stage. Given that our small country is often overlooked when it comes to the modelling scene. But when given the chance to represent our country internationally, they seized it with great pride and enthusiasm!
From striding down the Dior runway to captivate audiences at Louis Vuitton, these five Malaysian models have proven that nothing is impossible when you have an unrelenting resolve to aim for the stars. Thus, paving the way for aspiring models to explore new opportunities.
1. Shikin Gomez
Shikin Gomez garnered significant attention in 2023 when she appeared on the Dior runway for Pre-Fall 2023 in Mumbai, India. However, this was not the first for the mix-blood model to captivate audiences. As the runner-up of Asia’s Next Top Model Season 5, she has consistently been a prominent figure on the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week runway.
With her remarkable achievements, Shikin Gomez has firmly established herself as a renowned global model, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
2. Vanizha Vasanthanathan
Imagine your runaway photos are featured in Vogue. That’s what Malaysia’s model Vanizha Vasanthanathan—or Vee—has achieved. In 2016, she had the privilege of walking the runway at India’s Lakme Fashion Week, where she stood out as the sole Malaysian model to be chosen.
A few years later, she was once again selected to catwalk at China’s Fashion Week, representing esteemed brands such as Eve Cina, Chen Wen, and Ji Wenbo. Adding to her already impressive resume, Vee achieved yet another milestone in 2022 when she had the honour of walking for Marco Rabaldi in Milan.
3. Gwen Lu
Gwen Lu, a model hailing from Penang, has consistently been regarded as the epitome of style and glamour. With representation from various agencies across the globe, including Tokyo and Cape Town, Gwen has established herself as a sought-after model.
Her association with renowned brands like KENZO, Balenciaga, and MGSM further solidifies her status in the fashion industry. In addition to gracing the catwalk, Gwen has also graced the pages of prestigious fashion magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
4. Atikah Karim
Atikah Karim needs no introduction. The model has worked alongside Miley Cyrus as a backup dancer in one of her shows in London and has gained recognition as a runway model for renowned brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren and Rick Owens.
The Sabah-born model first joined the Ford Models Supermodel of the World Malaysia competition at the age of 18, which ultimately led to her securing an international modelling contract.
5. Ridzman Zidaine
The name Ridzman Zidaine will forever be engraved as one of Malaysia’s successful models. He initially entered the international scene in 2019 and subsequently graced the LV and Hermès stages in 2022. In 2024, he was chosen once again to walk in not just one, but two consecutive LV shows.
The model also holds the distinction of being the first model with Malay roots to make his mark on the global stage. At his young age, Ridzman Zidaine has a promising future ahead of him.
Featured image by @shikingomez and @ridzmanzidaine on Instagram.