Kuala Lumpur– The Embassy of Italy in Malaysia and the Italian Trade Agency marked the eighth edition of Italian Design Day 2024, a vibrant celebration honouring the enduring elegance, innovation, and sustainability synonymous with iconic Italian design principles.
This event, which took place on March 7 at the residence of the Ambassador of Italy to Malaysia, His Excellency Massimo Rustico, paid homage to renowned Italian brands such as Ferrari, BARISTA ATTITUDE, iXOOST, Riva from the Ferretti Group and marked the grand opening of the FOPE flagship store in Malaysia.
Italian Design Day 2024 showcased the rich heritage and cultural significance of Italian design, emphasising the meticulous craftsmanship, technology, attention to detail, and innovative spirit that have made Italian products synonymous with luxury and style worldwide.
Through captivating narratives, attendees gained insight into the stories behind these iconic brands, exploring the fusion of tradition and innovation that defines Italian design excellence.
This is highlighted by Flavio Manzoni, Chief Design Officer of Ferrari who, delighted to take part in this Italian Design Day in Malaysia, said, “The Ferrari brand combines tradition and innovation, passion and progress, beauty and driving pleasure – a perfect case in point for today’s topic.
Our founder Enzo Ferrari said that those who will come after me have accepted a very simple inheritance – to keep alive the will to progress pursued in the past. For us, this legacy represents a promise which we intend to keep.”
Giovanni and Matteo Panini, the founders of iXOOST, spoke of a similar promise, “We produce luxury BT speakers, where the quality of the materials and the technical know-how merge to create a listening experience which is in perfect harmony with its aesthetics.
It is no coincidence that iXOOST has its origins in the same region where iconic brands have made history in Italian automotive and motorsport industries. In fact, every creation is handmade and tailor-made in Modena, the heart of the Italian Motor Valley.”
Speaking on design, technology and innovation, Arnaud Dupuis, Asia Manager for the Ryoma group which carries, among others, the BARISTA ATTITUDE brand, presented their range of products while Shanya Taratikundech, Asia brand Ambassador introduced TEMPESTA, official World Barista Championship coffee machine, a cutting-edge technology wrapped in breathtaking design by Adriano Design, Torino.
The Ambassador pointed out, “While Italian brands embrace innovation at every step of the design process, they also bring a sense of luxury, style, and quality to everyday Malaysian life, enriching experiences and reflecting a commitment to excellence that transcends borders.
Italian jewellery brands like FOPE are admired for their exquisite designs and craftsmanship. Malaysians often cherish Italian jewellery as heirlooms, passing on the enduring beauty through generations.”
Claudia Piaserico, Head of Design for FOPE, echoed this mastery, “Luxurious yet versatile, comfortable and genderless, minimalist yet refined, FOPE jewellery’s aesthetic revolves around the gold components from which the iconic FOPE mesh was born.
Flex’it technology, which makes the jewellery flexible, embodies a cool sense of contemporary elegance. This is jewellery that transcends trends, space and time, to be worn all day, every day”.
In addition to celebrating Italian design heritage, Italian Design Day 2024 shone a spotlight on the sustainability initiatives embraced by Italian brands. Recognising the importance of environmental stewardship, many Italian brands are prioritising eco-friendly practices in their manufacturing processes.
From upcycling materials to implementing energy-efficient technologies, these initiatives underscore the commitment of Italian design brands to minimising their environmental footprint and promoting a more sustainable future.
This is confirmed by Margherita Sacerdoti, Head of Investor Relations & Sustainability for the Ferretti Group who remarked, “Made in Italy design and innovative technology underpin the success of our yachts, with a special focus on sustainable yachting as epitomised by Riva El- Iseo, the first full-electric powerboat that launches the E-Luxury segment.”
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About the Italian Trade Agency
The Italian Trade Agency is dedicated to promoting bilateral trade and investment between Italy and Malaysia. With a focus on fostering collaboration and strengthening economic ties between the two countries, the association plays a vital role in facilitating business opportunities and promoting Italian excellence in various sectors, including design, fashion, food and beverage, and automotive industries.
