A Malaysian Formula 1 Fashion Extravaganza

Kuala Lumpur, March 2014 – Visit Malaysia Year 2014 has begun on a most exciting note with an endless variety of attraction offerings throughout the year. The magic of Malaysia comes to you in the form of beautiful destinations, thrilling events and festivities, delicious dining experiences, adventurous getaways and more. Lucky visitors will indeed be spoilt for choices!

Fashion enthusiasts and shopaholics in search of THE ideal ‘shopper’s paradise’ will be happy to know that in less than 15 years, Malaysia has transformed rapidly to become one of the most sought after shopping destinations in Southeast Asia. CNN's 2012 survey of the Top 12 Best Shopping Cities in the world accorded Kuala Lumpur fourth place, interestingly beating long - established shopping hubs like Paris, Hong Kong and Dubai. In addition, Globe Shopper Index awarded Kuala Lumpur first runner up placing amongst shopping destinations in Asia Pacific in 2012, surpassing top retail favourites like Singapore, Bangkok, Sydney, Tokyo and Seoul.

If you are making a trip to these parts in the month of March, be sure to catch the first leg of the nation's very popular sale campaign. Known as the 1Malaysia Grand Prix Sale, it is held in conjunction with the annual Petronas Formula 1 Grand Prix race which takes place on 28 to 30 March 2014 at the Sepang International Circuit. Make a date in your diary to visit the gorgeous Egyptian-inspired Sunway Pyramid Mall on 15 March where you can witness the grand launch of the sale at the LG2 Orange Concourse. Prepare yourself for a colourful treat cultural dances, busker entertainment, guitar and song performances by popular local artistes, an elegant fashion show and the star highlight- a display of a series of the sharp and sporty Lotus Supercars. A few models will be on display at the same area for the viewing pleasure of shoppers on the 15 and 16 of March.

One of the best features of the sale carnival is the fashion platform, which lavishly offers both local and imported lines that reflect the à la mode living trends of today’s world. The launch of the 1Malaysia Grand Prix Sale 2014 on 15 March at the Sunway Pyramid Mall will also showcase one of the most delightful home- grown names you will find in Malaysia, Pink Jambu.

Established in 1992, Pink Jambu boasts artistic designs that are delicately hand-painted onto a canvas of fabrics and then, transformed into various forms and functions. These items which have won the admiration of many locally and abroad, range from elegant apparels to fine home accessories and accent pieces.

Batik is the main basis of Pink Jambu designs but unlike most labels, it is contemporary Batik that is featured. Different from traditional and formal styles of batik, Pink Jambu's styles stand apart through reduced elaboration and minute detail. Its simplicity generates a sense of harmony and illustrates the very essence of beauty. The brainchild and leading designer for the brand Tengku Marina Ibrahim, has skilfully applied her strong foundation in the arts, coupled with instinctive flair to bring Pink Jambu to the levels of success it has enjoyed to date.

Tengku Marina's inspirations are founded in the elements of nature and this can be seen in the fluid swirls and organic motifs that are prevalent in almost all of her creations. Every piece is a unique masterpiece and shoppers have a wide selection in silk, chiffon and cotton to choose from. Pink Jambu's flowing lines and vibrant colours make for a great tropically- inspired wardrobe.

This premier brand has enjoyed several major collaborations including those with celebrated Japanese dye master, Akira Yamamoto and, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur. It has also developed niche markets in South Asia, Europe and Japan and is increasing its foray into international expansion. A main highlight was its showcase at the International Trade Shows in Los Angeles and Osaka.

In the spirit of the Formula 1 race, the latest in sportswear by PUMA will also be featured alongside Pink Jambu. PUMA's long and successful partnership with Ferrari has created an impressive range of Ferrari licensed footwear, apparel and accessories that balances sophistication and practicality with a sharp and sporty look. This very popular sport-lifestyle brand has one of the longest heritages in motor sports and its development of fire retardant technology has revolutionised driver race-wear by dramatically reducing weight while maintaining the optimal performance of safety and comfort. That aside, PUMA sportswear will surely provide much comfort and style for the long list of exciting outdoor activities to be enjoyed in Malaysia. Be sure to pick from the sleek and powerful PUMA FERRARI shoes range- it might just be your most reliable travel companion.

Fashion and shopping aside, F1 fans have a great season to look forward to. The recently launched Petronas Formula 1 Grand Prix campaign also saw the kick off of a series of roadshows slotted to take place at one of the city’s premier shopping centres, the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Queensbay Mall up north in Penang, Johor Bahru down south and Sunway Pyramid Selangor, one of the most popular malls in the country. Themed 'Sepang Comes Alive', the roadshows present a string of activities built around the excitement of the Formula 1 event; one event designed to engage the interest of motorsports and F1 fans in particular is the F1 Simulator Challenge that is open to all F1 ticket holders. 10 drivers with the fastest time laps at each venue of the roadshows will qualify for a grand finale at the Sepang International Circuit on 29 March. The winner will drive away a brand new Nissan Almera NISMO worth RM92, 000!

So, enjoy the thrills of the hottest race in the region but make time to see what Malaysia has to offer at the 1Malaysia Grand Prix Sale 2014. From race and retail to fashion and food, you will certainly find the excitement spilling over from the race track into the retail stores. Welcome to the hottest motor race in the region and at the same time, have a grand time shopping with us!

-Tourism Malaysia.