FASHION ICON ZANG TOI HONOURED

By Manik Mehta

NEW YORK, May 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysian fashion icon Zang Toi will be
honoured for his achievements and as a “role model” to be emulated by children
as well as young and budding Asians waiting to climb the ladder of success.

The Kelantan-born, who is often referred to in local fashion circles as
Malaysia’s “best-known export”, has veritably put Malaysia on the world’s
fashion map.

His achievements are admired, not only by Malaysians but also by the large
financially-strong Asian community which gives achievement awards for
outstanding contributions to the overall Asian image.

Zang Toi, who has already been conferred many awards in the past and has
built up a coterie of top celebrities, including Hollywood stars amongst his
clientele, will now add one more trophy to his collection.

The Transfiguration School, which looks after the interests of children,
including those in kindergarten years, and is located in downtown Manhattan in
the Chinatown neighbourhood, announced that it will organise its 15th Annual
Fundraising Dinner in Chinatown on May 13, when he will be honoured.

The school paid a rich tribute to Zang Toi, hailing him as a “symbol of the
successful advancement of immigrants”.

“Celebrating over 20 years with the House of Toi (the name of Zang Toi’s
business which is located on 57th Street just across Manhattan’s glamorous Fifth
Avenue which is dotted by high-profiled designer stores) Transfiguration School
recognises his outstanding achievements in fashion and also his charitable
contributions,” said a spokesman of the school.

Asked how he felt after hearing the Transfiguration School announced the
award, an elated Zang Toi told Bernama that he was “moved” by the gesture.

“Children look up to me as a role model. Hopefully, I can set a good
example. I have spent some 30 years in the United States which is my adopted
home,” he said.

Asked if he would like to impart his wisdom and words of advice to young
Malaysians coming to the United States, he praised America, calling it “the
land of unlimited opportunities”.

“If you are willing to work hard, you will find this to be the land of
unlimited opportunities. After all, if I can make it here, I believe anyone else
can make it, too,” he quipped.