Local Fashion Label Turns Heads With Runway Show At Bukit Bintang's Pedestrian Crossing

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Last week, the brand held its Pelangi Raya fashion show in front of Pavillion Kuala Lumpur, with models and ambassadors walking the unconventional runway at the busy Bukit Bintang pedestrian crossing.

Following the fashion show, videos of the event were widely shared on social media, with outspoken netizens questioning the brand for its "elitist" and "insensitive" marketing strategy.

In a seven-second video shared on Twitter, models are seen walking the pedestrian crossing while bystanders look on.

One user applauded the designer for his colourful designs.

"Best," commented Melinda Looi, another Malaysian fashion designer.

Another commented that the collection looked "dope" and they regret missing the show.

Most users criticised the brand for using the pedestrian crossing during busy hours.

"People are trying to cross the street but now they have to wait for you to walk and turn," wrote one user.

"So uncivilised," wrote another.

Another user commented that the brand's modern take on Malaysia's traditional clothing is acceptable, but instead of using the pedestrian crossing, a normal runway would have been perfectly fine for Behati's Pelangi collection.

Meanwhile, one user questioned if Behati had a permit to use the pedestrian crossing.

"The public runway was not a public show and was conducted only for a video. We did not block or obstruct the crossing lane and anyone who wanted to walk past the crossing lane was free to do so.

"Even with the usual walking traffic, it's normal that people will need to make way and move aside in order for everyone to share the walking lane, and we made sure that everyone got to pass the road safely and surely on the day," Behati told SAYS.

They went on to explain that the designs seen on the models are from their viral pieces.

"The design is actually the same as the traditional Baju Melayu but only in a bigger size, made to be worn bigger than the wearer's body. Every construction of the design is made traditionally, Cekak Musang collar with buttons, three pockets, Kekek, and Pesak panels are all present.

"Those who express hate for the design [do so] because they do not understand the concept of oversized style or even fashion in general," they added.