STITCHING THE FUTURE

As heir to one of Malaysia's most established tailoring houses, Jenson Phang discusses legacy, innovation and redefining bespoke menswear.

- Words: WILLIAM KC KEE

For many second-generation entrepreneurs, taking over a family business can feel like inheriting both a privilege and a pressure.

For Jenson Phang, however, it represents something more nuanced: the opportunity to honour decades of craftsmanship while introducing tailoring to an entirely new generation of consumers.

As the son of SmartMaster founder Datuk Dickson Phang, Jenson grew up immersed in the world of fabrics, fittings and bespoke craftsmanship long before he officially stepped into the business.

Today, as he helps steer one of Malaysia's most established tailoring brands into its next chapter, his focus is clear: preserving the essence of tailoring while ensuring it remains relevant in a rapidly evolving fashion landscape.

In an era dominated by fast fashion, shifting dress codes and hybrid work arrangements, tailoring may seem like a relic of the past. Yet Jenson believes the opposite is true. Modern consumers are increasingly seeking individuality, quality and garments that reflect who they are—values that bespoke tailoring has championed for generations.

“I grew up around SmartMaster and spent many of my school holidays helping out across different departments,” recalls Jenson in an interview at SmartMaster's latest boutique in The Exchange 106.

“The business has always been a significant part of my life. Being exposed to different areas of the company gave me a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship behind every garment and how every department contributes to the final product.”

Watching his father build the company over nearly three decades also left a lasting impression. “Seeing that journey inspired me to continue what he started while finding new ways to evolve and innovate the brand for today's generation.” While many might assume that stepping into an established business comes with ready-made advantages, Jenson sees the greatest opportunity in changing perceptions surrounding tailoring itself.