In an exclusive interview with Harper’s BAZAAR Malaysia, Atikah Karim, Malaysia’s celebrated model, recounts her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to international fame. Her inspiring story sheds light on her struggles, triumphs, and the relentless pursuit of a dream that propelled her onto the global fashion forefront, all while staying true to her Malaysian roots.
by Mughni Che Din
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, I find myself reconnecting with Atikah Karim amidst the serene yet vibrant ambiance of a setting that speaks volumes of prestige and sophistication. Our paths first crossed over a decade ago at Ford’s Model Supermodel of the World competition in Malaysia. Back then, Atikah was an emerging talent, her eyes gleaming with the promise of a future filled with success and adventure. Today, as she prepares for the Harper’s BAZAAR Malaysia cover shoot, that promise has unfolded into an awe-inspiring reality.
Atikah, now 30, is the epitome of grace and composure, embodying the kind of strength and confidence that comes from a decade of navigating the complexities of the fashion world. Her towering height of 5’ 9” is just the tip of the iceberg, revealing a depth of character forged through triumphs and challenges. Originating from the diverse heritage of East Malaysia with Bajau and Bruneian roots, Atikah’s life story is a medley of rich cultures and experiences.
“Returning to Malaysia always brings a sense of warmth and belonging,” Atikah shares, her soft-spoken voice tinged with genuine affection. Despite the international accolades and recognition, her connection to her Malaysian roots remains as strong as ever, shaping her identity and infusing her approach to life and modelling, with authenticity and warmth. This connection starkly contrasts the often perceived distant nature of the fashion industry.
At the beautiful royal suite at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, Atikah is not just at a photoshoot; she’s at a crossroads of her journey. Bathed in the gentle light streaming through the grand windows, the room is lit up with Atikah’s graceful demeanour. Poised by a grand piano, she oozes sophistication in a Ralph Lauren sky blue double-breasted blazer and matching tulle midi skirt—her look blends effortlessly with the suite’s luxurious ambiance and serves as a poignant reminder of how far she’s come—from a hopeful young model to a figure of inspiration and pride on the global fashion stage.
View this post on Instagram
“Malaysia is more than just my home; it’s a part of my being, a constant in my ever-changing life,” Atikah reflects thoughtfully. Today, surrounded by familiar sights and an air of nostalgia, she is a vision of success and inspiration. This moment is more than just a homecoming; it’s a celebration of her roots, journey, and tenacious spirit—a testament to the notion that no matter how far one travels, the heart always remembers its home.
From an early age, Atikah held a conviction deeper than a mere dream; she saw herself destined for the modelling world. “Ever since I can remember, I’ve envisioned myself as a model. It was more than a dream; it was a certainty that has driven me since childhood,” she shares, her voice imbued with determination. This innate calling was a fleeting childhood fantasy and a deliberate goal she diligently pursued, manifesting her vision into reality.
Beginning in her formative years, this journey was marked by an unyielding focus on her ambition. From her earliest forays into beauty pageant competitions to the defining moment of clinching the prestigious title of Ford’s Model Supermodel of the World, every step was a calculated move toward her ultimate goal. However, the path to success was not without its hurdles. “There were challenges at every turn, but each one only strengthened my resolve,” Atikah recalls, reflecting on the early days of her career.
Not long after winning the modelling competition, Atikah moved to the United Kingdom on her own in 2014. It was there that she faced an industry that favoured oriental Asian aesthetic at the time, and she quickly realised the need to adapt and find her own footing “My time in the UK, though short, was incredibly formative. It made me acutely aware of the challenges of fitting into an industry with such specific preferences,” she explains. The experience, while challenging, did not deter her; instead, it fueled her determination to succeed on her own terms.
The highlight of her UK journey was her unexpected participation in Miley Cyrus’ Bangerz Tour concert. “That experience was interesting because it was unexpected. It was not just about the thrill of being part of such a huge event; it was a moment of realisation about the global scale and diversity of the entertainment world,” Atikah says candidly. This exposure to the broader aspects of the fashion and entertainment industry was pivotal in shaping her decision to take the next big leap in her career.
Realising the limitations and the need for a broader platform to showcase her talent, Atikah made the bold decision to move to New York. “After six months in the UK, I knew I needed a bigger stage, a place that was known for its diversity and opportunities. New York seemed like the natural next step,” she shares. This move was more than a geographical shift; it was a strategic step towards positioning herself in one of the world’s most buzzing fashion capitals.
In New York, Atikah career took a meteoric turn. In this city, known for its relentless pace and diverse opportunities, she began to truly carve out her identity in the global fashion arena. Embracing the city’s vibrancy and challenges, Atikah found herself walking the runways for some of the most iconic names in the industry.
“At first, New York was overwhelming. But soon, it became the platform where I could showcase my versatility and commitment. And to have worked with brands like Rick Owens, Marine Serre, and Ralph Lauren wasn’t just a dream come true; it was a validation of my place in the fashion world,” Atikah recounts with a mix of pride and humility. Each collaboration, each brand she worked with, was a new chapter in her ever-evolving story.
Despite the array of brands she has worked with, Atikah holds a special affinity for Lemaire, considering her collaborations with them as a personal career highlight. “There’s an alignment with Lemaire that I don’t feel anywhere else. It’s like their ethos matches my own,” she reflects. The brand’s philosophy of understated elegance and warmth of the founders resonates deeply with her.
View this post on Instagram
When it comes to her personal style, she describes it as “elevated off-duty”—a fuss-free blend of luxury and comfort. Her wardrobe is a testament to her discerning fashion sense, showcasing an exquisite selection from top-tier labels. “Some of the fashion brands that I’m into include Bottega Veneta, The Row, Jil Sander, Margiela, and Khaite. Their creations strike the perfect balance between lavishness and subtlety,” Atikah shares. Her affinity for these brands mirrors her own fashion ethos: a fusion of understated elegance and refined sophistication.
She attributes a significant part of her motivation and grounding to the continuous support of her family, including her parents and siblings, her boyfriend, Danny Lim, and her close circle of friends. “Their support has been a cornerstone in my journey, and their understanding and encouragement are invaluable”, she expresses with gratitude. This personal support system offers her a crucial balance and emotional anchor in the fast-paced fashion industry. The role of these relationships in her life cannot be overstated. “Having all of them by my side is empowering. They provide a sense of normalcy and support throughout my hectic career,” she reflects.
Atikah sees the evolving trends in the fashion industry, particularly in diversity and representation, as a positive shift. “It’s a more diverse landscape now. Social media has played a huge role in opening doors, allowing a broader spectrum of beauty and talent to be showcased,” she observes. Atikah believes that these platforms have been instrumental in democratising the industry, providing opportunities for those who may not have had them in the traditional modelling world.
She also notes that entering the modelling industry has become more accessible. “These days, anyone with passion and determination can venture into modelling. It’s a significant change from the past,” Atikah remarks. However, she acknowledges that there’s still progress to be made. “We are definitely heading in the right direction, but the journey towards complete inclusivity is ongoing. There’s more to be improved, but the steps taken so far are encouraging,” she concludes, optimistic about the industry’s future.
For those aspiring to carve out a career in modelling, Atikah offers seasoned advice drawn from her own journey. “First and foremost, set your goals,” she suggests. “Know what you want to achieve in both the short and long term. These goals will give your journey direction and purpose.” She stresses that hard work is non-negotiable. “Be prepared to put in the effort. Modelling isn’t just about looking good; it’s about her collaborations with them as a personal career highlight. “There’s an alignment with Lemaire that I don’t feel anywhere else. It’s like their ethos matches my own,” she reflects. The brand’s philosophy of understated elegance and warmth of the founders resonates deeply with her.
Atikah also highlights the importance of mental and physical preparation. “Take care of your health, stay fit, and be mentally resilient. The industry will test you in ways you might not expect,” she warns. She encourages models to develop a strong mental fortitude to handle rejection and the pressures of the industry. Finally, Atikah reminds that unpredictability is part of the industry’s nature. “Embrace uncertainty and stay adaptable. The fashion world is ever- changing, and success often comes from navigating its unpredictability with grace and flexibility,” she concludes.
Lately, Atikah has been adopting a more practical approach as she navigates the industry, identifying more as a working model than solely a fashion model. “The industry is evolving, and so is my role within it. As a working model, the focus is broader, often more commercially oriented,” she explains. Financial considerations partly motivate this shift, as working models often find more consistent and lucrative opportunities. “Balancing fashion and commercial work is essential. While fashion modelling has its artistic and prestige value, commercial modelling tends to be more financially rewarding,” she states.
Atikah’s perspective reflects a maturing understanding of the industry. She recognizes the need to balance artistic passion with practical financial considerations. “It’s about finding the right balance. My goal is to maintain my artistic integrity while also making smart choices for my financial stability,” she concludes. This balanced approach underscores her adaptability and savvy as a model navigating the complex dynamics of a competitive industry. She finds her inspiration in figures like Elsa Hosk, who epitomises elegance and wellness, and Marie von Behrens- Felipe, renowned for her minimalist, chic style as a digital creator. “I’m captivated by their blend of grace, wellness, and stylish creativity,” Atikah remarks. In them, she sees a perfect meld of professional excellence and personal satisfaction, reflecting her ambitions and aspirations.
Beyond modelling, Atikah is keen on embracing a holistic lifestyle, driven by continuous learning and exploring diverse interests. Her journey isn’t just about fashion; it’s about crafting a life that balances success with personal enrichment. As the shoot wraps up, Atikah reflects on her dual path, her enthusiasm for learning is evident in her pursuits outside of modelling. “Diving into areas like digital marketing, pottery, and languages is exhilarating. It’s about enriching my life, expanding my horizons beyond the fashion world,” she shares. This commitment to personal growth is part of her broader vision to lead a life that mirrors the balance and creativity of her inspirations. “Ultimately, my goal is to build a lifestyle that’s not only successful in the conventional sense but also rich in learning, creativity, and personal well-being.”
– – – – –
This article first appeared in May 2024 issue out now on newsstands.
All clothes and accessories by Ralph Lauren Collection.
Photographer: Edmund Lee
Creative direction and styling: Ai Lim
Hair: Juno Ko
Make-up: Cat Yong
Stylist’s Assistant Ainina Hasnul
Photographer’s Assistant: SimonTan
Model: Atikah Karim @ 3mmodels
Location: Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
