Twelve Limkokwing University fashion design students are one step closer to having their designs showcased on an international runway. They are the finalists for the Triumph Inspiration Award 2008 Challenge (Malaysia).

The contenders are Nurazleena Zakaria, Gan Xue Yee, Tan See Mun, Tan Siok Hoon, Catherine Satyawan, Meliawati Malik Oei, Andy Yap Hock King, Rico Rinaldi Tono, Friederich Herman Susilo, Wendy Chong Suet Mei, Desmond Lim Zhengsa and Merlin Yuwita.

Triumph International Malaysia’s sales manager Cecilia Wong announced the selection of the finalists at the university’s marketing theatre today. They will take part in the national final, in which the winner will represent Malaysia in the international event.

“At the national level, talented and young designers will be up against those of other students of their school or other prestigious design schools. They will come up with simply the best concepts that must inspire a panel of judges,” said Ms Wong.

The international final, to be held in Beijing on 31 July, will see contestants from nearly 32 countries take part.

The contenders for the Malaysian final were chosen from 83 Limkokwing students who had submitted more than 300 entries for the competition. Thirty students were later short-listed for the semi-final round.

The finalists are each given RM1,000 to produce their design by 5 May. Their creations will be presented at a gala dinner on 21 May.