The Innovation of Malaysia National Costume at Miss Universe: Memoir Goddess of Kumang

Abstract

Miss Universe, with a history spanning over 71 years, is regarded as the most prestigious beauty pageant worldwide. It was first held in 1952 and has continued its legacy, playing a crucial role in empowering women in the changing times by Phongpaichit (1989) and Malik et al. (2023). Malaysia has participated in Miss Universe since 1964 and achieved notable success by reaching the top 15 in 1970 by Abdul Hamid et al. (2015). The main objective of this research is to incorporate the Iban folklore figure, Goddess of Kumang, into the idea of Malaysia's national costume for the Miss Universe pageant. The research follows a qualitative approach, focusing on the practice and artistic experimentation to illustrate the representation of the Kumang Goddess in the National Costume, based on Peirce's Theory of Atkin (2010). The data collection process encompasses observation, documentation, and visualization methods to elucidate each step undertaken while producing illustrations. The research outcomes yield numerous fashion illustration concepts centered around the theme of the Kumang Goddess. The significance of this research lies in its endeavor to preserve and introduce a fresh dimension to the fashion industry by incorporating folklore characters as creative inspirations in artistic work.