#FASHION: A tribute to traditions that keep us rooted

The Tita Collection by Suen Jewellers pays homage to the rich textile and sartorial traditions of Malaysia, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Azah Aziz. Azah, wife of the late Royal Professor Ungku Abdul Aziz, devoted her life to preserving the beauty and significance of Busana Melayu and its associated heritage. Her meticulous research and collection of traditional clothing, vintage jewellery, and heritage textiles documented the craftsmanship and cultural knowledge held within Malay garments.

Her mother's passion for understanding and sharing this heritage was evident in her frequent discussions about the intricate details of textiles, the significance of motifs, and the way garments were worn. After her passing, Zeti Akhtar Aziz, Azah's daughter and current CEO of Suen Jewellers, continued her mother's mission by launching the Tita Collection in her memory. The collection consists of 33 exquisite pieces of fine jewellery, inspired by the textile and sartorial traditions of Malaysia.

The Tita Collection incorporates 18K gold and diamonds, transforming traditional motifs, textures, and forms into contemporary pieces that can be worn today. These jewellery pieces can be styled with accessories like tudung, selendang, lapels, and collars, allowing them to seamlessly integrate into modern wardrobes. Additionally, Suen Jewellers has created six heritage-inspired brooches for the Merdeka Textile Museum, drawing from batik, traditional wooden ukiran (carvings), and songket, reinterpreted in gold-plated 925 sterling silver.

A portion of the Tita Collection's proceeds will be donated to Viva Palestina Malaysia, an organization that has been supporting humanitarian initiatives in Gaza for over 17 years. The jewellery collection serves as a bridge between the past and present, offering a personal way for the younger generation to appreciate, understand, and carry forward these cultural heritages.