When it comes to streetwear fit, Malaysia doesn’t play games. Having carved out its own unique identity and broken new ground, the country has elevated the streetwear scene by combining both international influences with its local culture. The result is a distinct, slightly niche, streetwear aesthetic that stays true to Malaysian roots while appealing to a global, fashion-forward audience.

In this article, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular homegrown streetwear brands that have been making waves both locally and internationally, proving that you don’t have to look far to find high-quality, luxury streetwear brands. Sometimes, some of the best fashion discoveries can be found locally, where culture and storytelling come together.

Stoned & Co.

Perhaps the biggest independent streetwear brand in Malaysia right now, Stoned & Co. — founded by three visionary graphic designers — has been gaining traction lately for its minimalist yet bold designs inspired by Malaysian culture, as well as the peace and unity that the country represents. The brand gained wider attention when hip-hop trio Migos were spotted sporting Stoned & Co.’s shirts and tracksuits, proving that its influence extends far beyond Malaysia.

Stoned & Co.’s signature aesthetic has now become a distinct and familiar look across Malaysia, with every detail kept simplistic yet carrying a story to tell. The brand offers everything from outerwear and hoodies to footwear and accessories. Check out Stoned & Co.’s official website for more details.

AGAINST LAB

A Kuala Lumpur–based clothing line founded in 2015, AGAINST LAB was created by three individuals with varying backgrounds: one works in retail, another dabbles in illustration, and the third works in marketing. Together, they combined their skills — despite limited resources at the time — and formed a line that stood firmly “against the norm.” Thus, AGAINST LAB was born. The brand describes itself as one that “represents the spirit of the underdog.”

The label delivers fashion-forward pieces while keeping the spirit of streetwear alive: minimalist yet stylish enough, it is distinct. The brand has so far released summer, spring, fall, and other collections, as well as capsules that explore specific themes, such as love, stream, universal language, and more. Visit AGAINST LAB’s official website for more details about new releases, collections, and upcoming drops.

Pestle & Mortar

Having been in the game since 2010, Pestle & Mortar has championed Malaysian streetwear culture beyond the borders of Malaysia to other cities, but one thing remains unchanged about the brand. As the brand puts it,  “We will not forget our roots. We’ll bring the people, the stories, and the culture along with us, always.”

With its name sparking a nostalgic feeling of home, especially in Asian households, the very name inspired the clothing brand’s whole identity: blending streetwear culture with Southeast Asian influences. The brand produces high-quality streetwear pieces, including jerseys, knitwear, eyewear, and more. You may visit Pestle Mortar’s official website for more information about their products.

Nerdunit / Water The Plant

Founded in 2013, Nerdunit — with each release designed in their Kuala Lumpur studio — has also caught the attention of international consumers, especially for its collaborations with brands like Be@rbrick and Staple Pigeon. Combining design, art, and culture, the brand is also one of the leading streetwear lines in the country, centered on the concept “No One Ever Really Dies.”

Nerdunit produces pieces inspired by art and storytelling. Apart from Nerdunit, the artistic vision of its founder, Malaysian designer Ronald Chew, also created a sister brand named Water The Plant, where Nerdunit’s edgy aesthetic is contrasted by its sister brand’s bright and cheerful visual identity, complete with smileys, sunflowers, and other colorful motifs. And if you’ve been chronically online in 2023 and know the cultural discourse surrounding the release of "Oppenheimer" and "Barbie," you’ll understand why we call these brands the Barbenheimer of the streetwear scene.

Both brands boast a wide array of streetwear collections. You may check out Nerdunit's official website, as well as the Water The Plant category, for more information.

AkuDesign

A Melaka-based streetwear brand, AkuDesign has been around for over a decade since 2009, having started as an online store before moving onto pop-ups and eventually building a concept store located in the heart of the Melaka River area, just three minutes away from Jonker Street, Melaka.

Much like other streetwear labels, AkuDesign also leans heavily on bold designs, oversized tees, and everything that makes streetwear truly expressive. The brand produces headwear, bags, T-shirts, and more. Check out the brand’s official website for more information.

SVG Worldwide

Savage Worldwide (commonly known as SVG Worldwide) has become one of Malaysia’s fastest-rising streetwear brands in recent years. Known for its bold, contemporary designs, the label has steadily built a strong following among younger audiences who gravitate toward statement pieces and street-driven aesthetics.

From varsity pieces and jeans to street-ready t-shirts and beyond, SVG Worldwide continues to establish its name as a notable player in Malaysia’s evolving streetwear scene. For more information on its latest collections and releases, you may visit SVG Worldwide’s official website.