LSA100 CLASS OF 2024

At only 18 years old, national swimmer Rou Xin became the youngest member of the Malaysian contingent at Paris 2024, where she came out on top in the first heat. But before jetting off to the Olympic Games, she broke the national record — not her first time! — in the women's 400m individual medley at the first Malaysia Aquatics Short Course Swimming Championships. Only a day before that, she broke the record in the 200m individual medley.

The founder of Whimsigirl is a quiet force to be reckoned with. This year, the brand opens its second boutique at KL East Mall after its strong expansion beyond borders. With her leadership and a strong team, the brand continues to empower women and the community in various ways – through voices and clothings.

Pui Wan, who is also known as PicoWorm, is famous for her miniature diorama that evokes nostalgia. Her recent exhibit at The Gardens Mall has received positively impactful feedback as she preserve memories through the minutest details. Through her miniature replicas, she aspires to preserve disappearing cultural nuances and the diversity in Malaysia.

Nazreem continues to be an inspiration in the fashion world, influencing the younger audience with his impeccable sense of style on social media and beyond. This year, his presence is felt tenfold with numerous appearances at multiple fashion weeks this year including the ones in Paris, Dubai and Jakarta.

Auntie Siow and Michelle Siow Bi Bi aside, Jenn Chia (fondly known as @soimjenn on social media) is a creative wunderkind who’s made her name for her viral ad videos and  catchy punchlines. While she continues to be her fun and authentic self on and off camera, she also explores new realms with her lifestyle brand Terrae and being actively involved competitively in pickleball – inspiring her followers to live life to the fullest.

Scha is enigmatic – the fashion icon who is versatile in her own rights. Her walk at Dubai Fashion Week for Alia Bastamam in September has the world of fashion talking. She remains a steadfast force, but an inspiring one with her involvement in nurturing young aspiring talents in and stepping back on set to do what she does best.

Wonderboy Ridzman Zidaine became the first Malaysian model to open for Louis Vuitton Men’s Pre-Fall 2024 show in Hong Kong last year. The 23-year-old went on to open for the Maison again for its Autumn/Winter 2024 runway at Paris Fashion Week in January before appearing as the face of Pharrell Williams’ cowboy-centric Fall/Winter 2024 campaign in July.

Fuzana Mokhtaza is no stranger to the Malaysian fashion scene and 2024 marks the designer’s inaugural participation at KL Fashion Week. Renowned for bespoke creations and one of a kind bridal pieces, her designs are synonymous to luxury, sophistication and authenticity.

Music producer and songwriter Zayson Wong has worked with stars like NCT, Taeyong and GOT7. This year, he continues to make his impression in Taeyong’s second mini-album ‘TAP’ as well as THE BOYZ’s second album PHANTASY with the song ‘Escape’. He also co-produced the OST for RACE on Disney+.

Controversy may be his middle name but Agy is someone who knows how to go viral for the right reasons – by being his authentic, creative and goofy self. His influence has travelled to neighbouring countries, from his viral dance videos that also won him a TikTok award, and the unthinkable poses that he’d attempt for photoshoots. He has just released his latest single called Uno Dos Tres.

Fern celebrates 10 years in the industry as one of the most prominent sustainable batik designers in Malaysia. To mark her celebratory decade, she has also dropped a special limited edition collection that reimagines the iconic prints from the past decade, giving a modern twist to the traditional batik leitmotifs.

Those formative years have brought William Seng to where he is today as an influencer and content creator – he is not just internet’s  As one of the most sought-after creatives in town, William is treading into the beauty and fashion scenes, and continues to inspire his young audience with good values.

After over a decade in the industry, Shalma Ainaa took her brand SHALS to the next phase with her first-ever collection showcase at KL Fashion Week 2024. She also design multiple key looks for Indonesian singer Afgan for his many concerts and showcases, further establishing herself as a serious player in menswear and beyond.

Founded by Ridduan Ismail, Hadri Hasim and Sharmaine Arissa, TACT is a local loungewear brand that has recently had their debut on KL Fashion Week 2024. Envisioned by creatives, the brand has an effortless appeal with opportunities to go over and beyond. TACT has also paid tribute to the late Jiman Casablancas during their KLFW showcase.

Brian Khoo made a comeback after a three-year hiatus, putting together an exquisite collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2024. He recently made his presence felt at the annual Vogue Gala when his designs walked the runway, modelled by fellow LSA100 Suganya.

In 2024, Alia Bastamam completed the trilogy of past, present and future with Odyssey : ACT III which was showcased in the recent Dubai Fashion Week. Both as a brand and a fashion designer, Alia lends her voice through fashion with an exceptional design language and story-telling.

Chelsea Sik caught the attention of netizens when she became the first Malaysian woman actor in a Motion Capture for Apex Legends. Born and raised in Malaysia before moving to US at the age of 15, Chelsea nailed the characterisation of the new character, “Alter” with high praises from the Apex Legends team.

After her successful runs on Crazy Rich Asians, Joy Ride, and also co-writing Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon, Malaysian film director and screenwriter Adele Lim continues to make headlines – she is set to direct Disney rom-com, ‘The Princess Diaries 3, starring Anne Hathaway.

From dressing Lady Gaga to closing Dubai Fashion Week, Rizman Ruzaini is building a fashion empire beyond Malaysia and 2024 has been one of the biggest years for the brand. Now expanding in the Middle East, Rizman Ruzaini has bigger plans to take the label to greater heights.

Jane Chuck is a multi-hyphenated household name. After being a mother in May, she quickly catapulted back into the industry with numerous campaigns, fashion week as well as a baby line under Chuck’s.

Pamela Tan has had her fair share of fame and recognition but being the only Malaysian artist to be featured in an international centennial exhibit in Singapore tops the list this year. She continues to inspire with exciting projects and masterpieces in the pipeline as she expands her influence in the artistic realm.

Photographer and creative director Nelson Chong is a visionary. In between stunning images and attention-grabbing photography, Nelson is expanding his talent beyond borders – making his mark as a multihyphenated creative with so much to offer in the industry. He is now making his mark in China.

Being on the cover of Vogue Singapore has to be the biggest breakthrough for the 27-year-old model who represents the next generation of young aspiring models. As the one to watch, she continues to blaze the runways both locally and globally with her enigmatic gaze.

Besides starting his career as an announcer on Hitz FM this year, Daniel is making waves as one of the most prominent hosts in the country. He also nicked a couple of star-studded interviews including his most recent trip to Los Angeles to cover the premiere of Wicked starring Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and Michelle Yeoh.

Three-member band MASDO — who will be performing at a concert at Arena Larkin Indoor Stadium in December — has had quite a year for themselves. They were nominated for Best Asia Act at the 2024 MTV EMA, showcased their impeccable talent at Hausboom Music Festival 2024 and more.

The icon Dato' Sri Siti Nurhaliza is set to end her momentous 2024 on a high note with a concert alongside Judika at Stadium Merdeka. This milestone joins an extensive list this year which comprises moments like performing in Indonesia during John Legend’s concert there, releasing the music video for new song ‘Magis’ and taking the stage at Hausboom Music Festival 2024.

Whether it’s ‘Masing Masing’ or ‘Gundah’, Ernie Zakri is on a journey like no other. 2024 marks so many milestones for the Malaysian singer, including selling out her upcoming January 2025 concert in seven hours and appearing on the billboard of Times Square in New York. Furthermore, Ernie Zakri also performed a surprise duet with LANY during the band’s concert in Kuala Lumpur.

2024 has been one amazing year for Meerqeen as he starred in shows such as ‘Cinta Untuk Sekali Lagi’ and ‘Uncle Bos Mama’. Outside film and television, Meerqeen also featured in Daiyan Trisha’s music video for ‘My Home Is In Your Arms’. 

ALVN (or Alvin Chong) released his second album in 2024. Called ‘between the lines’, the eight-track record is completely in English and comprises songs such as ‘onemorenight’ with YOUHA and ‘over again’, Outside music, ALVN was among a number of Malaysian stars who attended Milan Fashion Week.

2024 has been nothing but momentous for Aisha Retno. The singer won Best Performance at the 38th Anugerah Juara Lagu for her song ‘Sutera’ and released latest track ‘Samudera’. Moreover, she was also in Indonesia for the Java Jazz Festival.

There’s no denying Blink’s reputation among Malaysia’s best DJs. In 2024, DJ Blink reached even greater heights in his career when he held his ‘First Love’ concert at Zepp KL. This was his first ever concert and featured guests like Priscilla Abby and 3P. In addition, Blink also represented Malaysia at Heineken Refresh which was held in Sunway Lagoon as well as Waterbomb in Singapore.

Up-and-coming DJ Daaliah has quickly become one of Malaysia’s favourite entertainers. Whether it’s at exclusive parties or happening clubs, expect Daaliah to get the crowd dancing and swaying. On social media, the DJ often showcases his musical finesse through jam sessions and songwriting.

Jaden Chen has unveiled a number of songs in 2024 including ‘You Ain’t Deny’ and ‘Easier’. In addition, the young star — also known for his captivating content on social media — released a Mandarin track titled ‘我愿意把我世界交换你的时间 (Wo Yuan Yi Ba Wo Shi Jie Jiao Huan Ni De Shi Jian)’.

In 2024, Nadhir Nasar continued to shine on Malaysian screens with his role in ‘Kelas Tahanan Cikgu Hiragi’. When he’s not acting, Nadhir is also a director — working his magic on the film ‘Ingat’ and Daiyan Trisha’s music video for ‘My Home Is Your Arms’.

Kuching-born singer Priscilla Abby has seen her career flourish in various ways this year. Whether it’s singing ‘Bersama Satu Suara’ for MR D.I.Y with Alif Satar, The Locos and Jaclyn Victor or her memorable performances on ‘The Music Journey’, Priscilla is in her winning era. She also represented Malaysia as PUMA’s Brand Ambassador at its recent flagship store opening event in Sunway Pyramid.

To call Hael Husaini a powerhouse would be an understatement. Whether it’s releasing his first ever album ‘Antonim Pt. 1’ or winning Best Theme Song (or Title Theme)  for ‘Diam’ at the 2024 Asian Academy Creative Awards,  the singer has had a tremendous year. The latter is a song he performed for ‘My Famous Ex Boyfriend’.

After experiencing tremendous success in the Malaysian film industry, Anna Jobling took to Indonesia in 2024 with a role in ‘Lembayung’. In addition, Anna was also selected as one of three judges for ‘Muzikal Lawak Superstar 4’. Think that’s all? The actress will soon lead ‘Duyung: Legenda Aurora’, a sequel set for 2025.

This year, DOLLA adds a full length concert to their long list of milestones! Comprising Angel, Sabronzo and Tabby, the Malaysian girl group — beloved for tracks such as ‘BAD’ and ‘CLASSIC’ — performed at Zepp KL in August. In 2024, the group also released ‘Here4U’, a song dedicated to their fans.

Since her participation in ‘Chuang Asia 2024’, Elyn Leong’s star power has only risen. As part of girl group Gen1es, the musician has unveiled the team’s first ever album, ‘Hourglass — comprising eight songs including ‘Lucky Bell’ and ‘Sick Of You’. Elyn now showcases her talent and dedication in Malaysia, Thailand and beyond.

Firdhaus’ go-getter spirit is evident as he takes the music industry by storm locally and beyond. Known for hits such as ‘Gulf of Alaska’, ‘Divorce in Ghana’ and ‘Eternal Friendship’, the Malaysian singer-songwriter embarked on his ‘Hello Again’ tour — including dates in Australia, Macau, Taipei, Singapore and Hong Kong. Firdhaus is also one of the main stars who participated in Astro’s music show ‘The Music Journey’.

Malaysian singer Yuna has always been a musical force to be reckoned with. In 2024, the musician continued to thrive in the realm of music with releases such as ‘I’ll Show You’ with Chicocurlyhead, ‘Wakta Utama’ with Bunga Cinta Lestari and ‘Bad Intentions’. She also took to the stage at this year’s Borneo Sonic Music Festival which was held in Kuching, Sarawak.

Malaysian film legend Siti Saleha needs no introduction. The actress has always been a staple in the industry and 2024 saw her go international — winning Outstanding Asian Star for her role in ‘SeOfis’ at the Seoul International Drama Awards. In addition, Siti also starred in Viu’s ‘The Secret’ where she played Johanna.

In 2023, Jack Tan starred in the acclaimed ‘Abang Adik’ film — catapulting him to international fame. This year, the Malaysian actor is taking things up a notch by starring in ‘Gold’, a film about badminton icon Cheah Liek Hou. His next film sees him head to Taiwan for a role in ‘Ta Nian Ta Ri’.

Jojo Goh continues to blaze the world of film in 2024 with projects such as ‘Padu’, ‘The Hidden Dragon’ and ‘The Hidden Dragon: Double Cross’. Jojo is set to star in ‘Emerald Hill’, a spinoff of ‘Little Nyonya’, which will be released in 2025.

Content creator, model and actor Zhen Ning is a familiar face in the Malaysian entertainment scene. Whether he’s gracing the hottest fashion event, releasing viral videos or acting in ‘Benci Jadi Cinta’, Zhen Ning isn’t stopping any time soon. He was also in Milan earlier this year for Fashion Week.

With tracks like ‘Salty’, ‘Want Me Back’ and ‘Messy Girl’ as well as album ‘Love, Again’, Claudia Tan continues to showcase her musical prowess. Furthermore, Claudia represented Malaysia at Jameson Distilled Sounds in ireland.

From her successes as an actress in ‘Harimau Malaya’ and as a host of Studio Sembang, Amelia Henderson truly does it all. At this year’s Asian Academy Creative Awards, she won ‘Best Entertainment Host’ for her stint at ‘Gempak Most Wanted’.

Last year, Lunadira became the first musician from Malaysia to take the COLORS stage. This year, the singer-songwriter is adding to her musical journey by releasing ‘crying over nothing (wah wah)’ — part of the new ‘It’ll Be Alright, Right?’. She was also in Brisbane for the music festival The Tivoli.

Sarawakian artist Belle Sisoski continued to showcase her one-of-a-kind blend of music style — performing at the 27th Rainforest World Music Festival among others. This November, she’s set to represent Malaysia at ULTRA Taiwan. In 2024, she unveiled tracks such as ‘The Revival’, ‘Secrets’ and ‘Fingers’.

2024 marks Jaclyn Victor’s 20th anniversary since winning ‘Malaysian Idol’ in 2004. To celebrate, the icon held her first ever solo concert at Zepp KL. Moreover, Victor is also a host on ‘The Chosen One’ on Astro in addition to releasing songs like ‘Sesal Tak Bermakna’ and ‘Kejutkan Aku’.

Malaysian actor and film director Bront Palarae continues to make headlines in 2024, starring in Thai film ‘The Cursed Land’ as Heem. In addition, his performance in the film ‘Harum Malam’ won him Couple Filem Popular Trofi at the 36th Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian alongside Nadiya Nisaa.

Malaysia’s leading man, Mierul Aiman, continues to expand his acting range. Known for his romantic roles, he takes on new challenges in the ‘Projek: Exit’ anthology series, showing his versatility beyond the romance genre.

Singer-songwriter and composer Ryota Katayama reached new heights in 2024, crafting the soundtrack for the Malaysian neo-noir film ‘Abang Adik’. The aforementioned earned him numerous accolades, including Best Song Producer at the 35th Golden Melody Awards. This year, he also starred in ‘The Music Journey’.

The dynamic trio De Fam went viral this year with the catchy Raya hit ‘Alamak Raya Lagi!’. After a break, the group returned to the stage to compete on ‘The Hardest Singing Show’ and had the honour of opening the Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian.

Aniq Kasdan is on his way to achieving true victory, and he can feel it. A weightlifter that can rival many, Aniq first solidified his place in the scene back in 2021 when he won the silver medal at the 2021 World Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan — being the first ever Malaysian weightlifter to win a medal in the competition. In the same year, he also won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships and a bronze at the 2021 SEA Games. The following year, he not only won Malaysia’s first medal and first gold in the Commonwealth Games, but also set a new record of 142 kg in Clean & Jerk. This year, in his Olympic debut at Paris 2024, Aniq finished fourth place — missing out on podium by only 1kg.

National triathlete Esther Joy — also an alumnus of Lifestyle Asia’s The Z List 2024 — is truly the epitome of strength. This long-distance queen of the 2024 Sukma Games made waves by placing 8th at the Nagoya Women’s Marathon in Japan this year, but her journey has been paved long before. After soaring through the 2020 National Cross Country with a gold medal and representing the nation at the 2022 SEA Games Triathlon, she also braved the heart-pounding IRONMAN 70.3 Desaru Coast in 2023 Ironman Desaru 2024. Her next goal? Becoming Malaysia’s first triathlete at the Olympic Games.

The Selangor Red Giants, the eSports division of the Selangor Football Club, are well on their way to bringing national pride in the world of eSports. On top of being crowned eSports Team of the Year most recently at the MLBB Creator Awards Ceremony, they also dominated the Mobile Legends: Southeast Asia Cup (MSC) 2024 by scoring the million-dollar first, ending Malaysia’s seven-year title drought in eSports.

With the rise of the pickleball craze in Malaysia this year, enter Colin Wong: Malaysia’s current No. 1 in the sport. He made his name across the borders this year with his outstanding achievements at the UNJ Pickleball Indonesia Open 2024, as well as the first runner-up at the Skechers International Tournament back in July.

At only 18 years old, Kuching-born Johan “Jojo” Ghazali has made himself a modern icon for his excellence in muay thai boxing. Thanks to his unbreakable spirit and physical prowess, Jojo has opened up space for others to be unafraid to try the sport. Jojo’s rise to fame can be credited to his performance in the ONE Championship in 2023, where he racked up a perfect 5-0 slate upon arrival and hailed as a ‘teenage Muay Thai sensation’, a fighting phenomenon. He continues to make Malaysia proud this year in the ONE 168: Denver event.

A shining star in the world of wushu, Sydney Chin made the nation proud by bringing home a bronze medal at the 2021 SEA Games in Hanoi, and a silver medal at the World Wushu Championships just last year. And this year, she upped her game when she clinched a bronze medal at the 2024 Asian Wushu Championships for the taijiquan dual event with her partner, Wong Zi Hong.

Following his performance at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games — after clinching gold at Rio in 2016 — Ziyad’s unwavering fighting spirit brought him to a happy victory in the next cycle. He managed to bring home the silver medal at Paris 2024 — and according to Ziyad, he’s not yet ready to stop his groove just yet.

Sin Li Jane has held her own as a national women’s bowler — earlier this year in June, she made history by becoming the first Malaysian to win the 2024 US Women’s Open in Indianapolis, and the second Asian to win the tournament after Japan in 1982. On top of that, Li Jane also became the champion of the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) Tour Championship. She clinched the coveted Player of the Year title, becoming the first ever Asian to do so and earning herself a Malaysia Book of Records Award.

An icon of his generation, Lee Zii Jia is best-known for his smash on the court — especially his backhand smash — speed and reflexes, and he is regarded as one of the best players in the men’s singles category. From his constant victories at the SEA Games and Badminton Asia Championships, he made the country immensely proud when he clinched the bronze at Paris 2024, making him the third Malaysian men’s singles player to win a medal at an Olympic Games after Rashid Sidek and Lee Chong Wei.

Since 2024, Soh Wai Ching has held the rank of the World No. 1 tower runner in the world. And this year, he emerged as the World Champion in the 2024 Tower Running World Championships after conquering the Taipei 101 in Taiwan earlier this year in May. Wai Ching’s journey to the top no doubt proves his dedication to the sport, and bringing Malaysia’s name to even greater heights — with a significant milestone in the sport, after Wai Ching crowned himself as the new World Champion.

The badminton world rejoiced when Nur Izzudin and Goh Sze Fei reunited last year to make the cut for Paris 2024. Their chemistry — despite the differences — is undeniable after eight years of partnership, and their strength is greater together than when apart. Since their reunion, they’ve been very consistent in their victory. The Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin duo won the Japan Open in August and the China Open the following month; and most recently, they clinched the gold at the Arctic Open.

At only 19, Cherry Yeo has brought Malaysia to great heights within the dance scene. She first stole the spotlight last year in national news after winning three golds in the Mallorca Dance Festival in Spain. Mastering the Women’s Latin Solo dance category (and achieving a world ranking of No. 2), Cherry clinched the gold medal at the 2024 London Open Championship in September. She also came out on top in the Latin Solo event at the World Dance Sport Federation World Cup in Belgrade, Serbia this October.

Sharul Aimy — who graced Lifestyle Asia’s The Z List cover last year — has been making it big in the gymnastics world. After clinching the bronze at the 2023 Asian Games, he soared to new heights by winning Malaysia’ historic first medal at the Asian Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Despite squash not being in the official Olympic Games (at least not until 2028), Nicol David has undoubtedly made Malaysia proud as the former No. 1 (and longest-reigning) as well as an eight-time World Champion in the sport. This year, Nicol was still able to live out her Olympic dream as the first Olympic squash representative for Malaysia at Paris 2024, taking on the role of Malaysia’s Deputy Chef de Mission.

At just 25 years old, Sivasangari is well on her way to the top of the squash board. Two years ago, the national squash queen was ranked No. 20 in the world, and since then she has been smashing her way through the squash scene. Her performance at the recent 2024 London Squash Classic speaks for itself — she not only knocked out the current world No. 2; she also beat the likes of the current World Champion and World No. 1 in squash.

Liek Hou is something of a legendary pioneer of para-badminton in Malaysia, being a 14-time World Champion at both the SU5 singles and doubles events. At the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, when para-badminton officially debuted, Liek Hou went down in history as the first-ever Paralympic champion in the sport. Four years later, Liek Hou went on to defend his title at Paris 2024. His historic feat at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games was immortalised in the 2024 Malaysian film Gold, directed by Adrian Teh.

A legend in his own right, Bonnie Bunyau made history by clinching Malaysia’s first ever gold medal in the men’s 72 kg event at the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo. This year, he defended the gold at Paris 2024 and even went on to break his own world record for the event.

The iconic badminton duo strikes again. This year, not only did Pearly and Thinaah make their debut at Paris 2024; they also made history by becoming the first ever Malaysian women's doubles pair to advance to the semi-finals of an Olympic Games. And they have only continued to make waves from there, going on to represent the country in the Arctic Open as well as the Denmark Open.

The Kuan Family is, undoubtedly, one of Malaysia’s most popular families — comprising the Kuan siblings, Jestinna, Christinna and Perry, as well as the parents. This year, the family released their much-anticipated Chinese New Year anthem, ‘龙龙好运来 (Long Long Hao Yun Lai)’. In addition, they also formed UFCO Media, a creative agency that focuses on social media marketing and content creation.

Su Kim Hock is the man behind Penang’s one Michelin-starred French restaurant, Au Jardin and Un Poco Loco as well as the recently opened Kuala Lumpur-based Picaro. The opening of the new restaurant at Nam Kok Hotel marks the chef’s foray in this city’s dining scene. The chef now continues to drive the industry forward one dish at a time.

Couple Shi Han and J are the two people behind Human Edition, a page on Instagram created to shine a light on ordinary Malaysians. Established in 2023, Human Edition currently has 85.4K followers. The group’s efforts have seen them speak to Malaysians from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur. 

With restaurants such as one Michelin-starred Beta, Skillet and Upperhouse, Raymond Tham is a chef-entrepreneur and co-founder of KARLS Group alongside Alex Cheah and Kelvin Cheah. In addition to his collaborations with Dior, the chef has also teamed up with brands such as Glenfiddich and Suntory on specially curated menus.

103 Coffee’s barista Nicky Voon recently took home another win at the Latte Art Championship in Malaysia. This marks her third time taking the top position at the competition. She is set to represent the nation at the World Latte Art Championship in 2025. 

Michelle Goh made headlines this year when her Bangkok-based Mia Restaurant was given one Michelin star. Born in Kuching, the chef isn’t just the first from the state of Sarawak to have the prestigious star but also youngest female chef from Malaysia to do so. Goh marks another milestone in her career as Mia celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2024.

2024 sure was a fruitful year for Mekyun! Now only was she awarded Best National Entertainment Influencer by KNKV but the star was also appointed an ambassador Telekom Malaysia. Earlier this year, Mekyun was also part of Lifestyle Asia Malaysia’s debut Hot 10 list.

Marion Caunter has definitely come a long way since her time as a TV host. The fashion icon is behind brands such as Hairplay Salon and Mare — which recently launched the Lip Slick Hydrating Sheer Lip Oil range. In addition, Marion can also add her appointment as OMEGA’s Friend of the Brand to her list of milestones for 2024.

For Maggy Wang, 2024 marks the return of her signature Head Over Heels podcast. The fourth season of the podcast continues to showcase Maggy in her element as she uses her platform to discuss impactful and meaningful topics. In addition, the creator doesn’t shy away from touching on subjects many avoid.

Koh Yung Shen, founder of Backdoor Bodega, is a well-respected icon in the Malaysian cocktail scene. This year, Koh brought back the second edition of Penang Cocktail Week which first started in 2023. With his initiative, the mixologist and entrepreneur has been instrumental in shining a light on what Malaysia has to offer in the realm of drinks and beyond.

Koh Li Tim is both the co-founder behind skincare brand PALOMA and the Business Development Director of Environment Design Consultancy (EDC). As an entrepreneur, Koh launched PALOMA earlier in 2024 with the 24/7 Repair Serum and Kind Cleanser. On Instagram, the personality continues to showcase his on-the-go lifestyle, garnering 42.2K followers along the way.

Jon Lee is the mastermind behind renowned cocktail bar Penrose. This year, the Kuala Lumpur-based bar placed eighth on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list and 98th on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. When he is not behind the bar at Penrose, Jon can be seen crafting drinks all over the world with guest shifts and takeovers.

With five physical stores already in Malaysia and Singapore, Wanderlust + Co’s progress is a testament to entrepreneur Jenn Low’s spirit and tenacity. Apart from making its foray into Singapore, Jenn has also opened doors to the new boutique at The Exchange TRX. Wanderlust + Co takes pride in offering sustainably sourced and high quality jewellery. 

Jason Alexander Pang and Mandy Gioh are the creative duo behind Motherchuckers, a Malaysian lifestyle brand co-founded with Jane Chuck. Together, they were responsible for the captivating and alluring visuals and content that the brand produced. This year, Motherchuckers unveiled a new line of resort-ready designs as well as established Apartment 103 at APW Bangsar with 103 Coffee.

Drag performer Giselle Fendi ventured beyond Malaysia this year with their powerful and entertaining performances. In addition to taking on the local scene, the Malaysian queen recently performed in Singapore alongside Plastique Tiara at +65 Superclub during Plastiqiue Tiara’s The Asia Tour.

Social media star, Gajen Chandra, is more than just a content creator that makes people laugh and inspires with his style. He first began his journey as a business owner with clothing brand, Stimul8 — before switching into the skincare sphere with Chandra. His new journey sees him introduce a lip balm.

Elaine Daly, founder of Lead Up Asia and producer of ‘Women Talk’ on TV3, can add Regional National Director of Miss Universe to her long list of career milestones. The personality now oversees Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and Indonesia. 

As Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of APW in Bangsar, Ee Soon Wei has played a crucial role in creating one of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic lifestyle hubs. His work to transform the former printing into a space for creatives and local entrepreneurs is widely recognised. This year, APW is set to see the opening of Coach Play, the brand’s first in Kuala Lumpur.

A pioneering model, an avid activist with non-profit organisation Fugee Org, an inspiration for all Malaysians and beyond. Deborah Henry forges ahead this year with the debut of Debonair, a podcast series focused on all things money. She’s a voice to be reckoned with and does not back down from using her platform for the greater good.

At the end of 2023, Darren Teoh and his restaurant Dewakan made history as the first Malaysian eatery to garner two Michelin stars. In 2024, Teoh, a champion of Malaysian produce and flavours, is celebrating the first inception of Dewakan; established all the way in 2014. Now, the restaurant can be found on the 48th floor of Naza Tower in Kuala Lumpur.

A prominent face in the Malaysian F&B industry, Darren Chin is the name behind spots such as one Michelin-starred DC Restaurant, Gai and Bref. The latter two restaurants recently moved to M Resort & Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, a testament to Chin’s dedication to elevating the dining experiences. This year, the restaurateur has also partnered with Malaysia Airlines on a new campaign focused on Chiang Mai.

From taking to the skies as a flight attendant for Emirates Airlines to starting her journey as an entrepreneur, Claire Tan has done it all. The Grumpy Bagel founder went viral this year (alongside her bakery, of course) — using social media to highlight her day-to-day as a small business owner. The massive queues outside her cafe is proof that success comes with dedication and time.

Malaysian DJ group Cherry Bomb has been making waves everywhere with their electrifying sets and entertaining performances. Comprising Jovynn, Ashley Lau and Aida Azrin, the all-women electronic collective is beloved for the energy they bring wherever they go. Cherry Bomb was a staple at events this year, whether it’s at the launch party of a beauty brand or a rave in a club.

The past two years have seen Chang Yong and Shusen continue to build and grow their clothing label, Dmeow. This year, the duo marked another milestone when they celebrated the brand’s 2nd anniversary with their first ever event at The Starhill. The occasion coincided with the unveiling of the Dmeow Academy collection.

Ceddy Ang truly needs no introduction. He’s a content creator, a TV host and an entrepreneur — establishing Owlet, releasing his very own line of perfumes. In 2024, Ceddy can add narrator for the Malaysian Philharmonic Ochestra’s ‘Peter and The Wolf’ as well as red carpet host for the TikTok Awards among others to his extensive achievements.

Amber Chia is a true Malaysian icon, from being a trailblazer supermodel to establishing her own makeup line SHERO and the Amber Chia Academy. This year, Amber continues to use her experience to nurture young aspiring models. All that while taking the runway show after show, proving why she’s among the highest echelon of supermodels.

Daiyan Trisha makes a powerful return to the music scene with her highly anticipated second album, Lovelorn. The multi-hyphenate also made her directorial debut stepping behind the camera to direct the music video for her second single, "Lovelorn."