USM’S WONG LILIE WINS TOP EMERGING DESIGNER AWARD AT MIFF 2025

by Iqmal Daniel
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Wong Lilie from Universiti Sains Malaysia (Middle) awarded The MIFF FDC champion for her Leviosa Chair

The Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF)  presented its prestigious 2025 Awards Ceremony on 3rd March at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition  Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur. The event was officiated by YBhg Dato’ Razali Bin Mohammad, Deputy Secretary-General (Plantation & Commodities) of the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, who graced the occasion as the guest of honor.

The ceremony spotlighted three coveted award categories: the MIFF Furniture Design Competition (MIFF FDC) for emerging designers, the Best Presentation Award (BPA), and the Furniture  Excellence Award (FEA) recognizing established exhibitors who consistently push the boundaries of design, sustainability, and craftsmanship.   

The MIFF FDC champion title was awarded to Wong Lilie from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) for her Leviosa Chair, a stunning fusion of rattan craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, featuring fluid curves and an open structure. Ong Jing Rou from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation took second place with Loome, an innovative cabinet design representing transformation and adaptability. The third-place winner was Putera Muhammad Afiq Bin Maizurin from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), whose Monroe Breeze Chair paid tribute to Marilyn Monroe’s iconic dress moment, capturing movement in a sculptural form that blends fashion with functional design.

Leiosa Chair creation of Wong Lilie

Recognizing the vital role of education in nurturing future design leaders, T.S. Dr. Siti Suhaily Binti Surip (USM) received the Best Mentor Award, while Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation was named Best Institution for its contributions to fostering young design talents. 

Meanwhile, the Furniture Excellence Award (FEA) celebrated outstanding craftsmanship and innovation, with Inspiwood Furniture securing the Platinum Award, Yun Ming Wood Industries receiving the Gold, and Sundesk Venture taking the Silver.

“Congratulations to all the winners! Today’s celebration is more than just about recognition. It’s about investing in the future of global furniture design. By supporting both emerging and established talents, MIFF continues to bridge Asian design ingenuity with international markets. The creativity we’ve seen reaffirms our commitment to fostering designs that enhance the way people live, work, and connect with their environments,” said Ms. Kelie Lim, General Manager of MIFF. 

YBhg Dato’ Razali Bin Mohammad, Deputy Secretary-General (Plantation & Commodities) of the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities

As the largest and most influential furniture trade exhibition in Southeast Asia, MIFF  continues to cement its position as the premier platform where creativity meets commerce, shaping the future of global furniture design one inspired piece at a time. 

For more information, please visit https://miff.com.my/miff-awards/

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