"GRACE," an event showcasing the charms of Myanmar through its creative endeavors, was held on July 3rd at IDOL on Antique Street in Aoyama. The event was sponsored by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and was produced by Mika Sato of "rooms," a joint exhibition run by H.P.FRANCE. Many government dignitaries, including Prime Minister Abe and Myanmar President Thein Sein, attended the event. They viewed a show by a female fashion designer from Myanmar and an exhibition of local products.
After a two-day visit to Myanmar, Sato, who produced the event, presented an installation show by Mo Hom, a leading female fashion designer from Myanmar. Sato commented, "Myanmar has a long way to go, both as a country and in the fashion industry. This event introduced Moe Hom, based on the idea that 'fashion drives everything.' She is practically the only designer active in Myanmar, and I hope everyone will keep an eye on her to understand future Myanmar fashion trends." The fabric for Moe Hom's dresses was made from yarn produced from lotus stem fibers, a traditional Myanmar craft. The smooth texture, beautiful luster, and vibrant colors showcased the high quality of Myanmar's creations. Moe Hom, who studied design in New York and runs her own apparel business there, created dresses that exuded a relaxed, modern feel, while the intricate details accentuated the profound sophistication of Myanmar's traditional culture. In addition to the above program, the venue also featured a demonstration of spinning lotus stem fibers, an exhibition of traditional costumes from eight Myanmar tribes, and introductions to local Myanmar products and traditional cuisine. According to the event's organizers, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), this event will serve as a springboard for Japan to showcase its large-scale support activities for Myanmar, while also working to develop local products into high-quality commercial products and create market development opportunities in both countries. Yasuhiko Yoshida, Strategic Export Negotiator for the Trade and Economic Cooperation Bureau at METI, said, "As support for Myanmar, which is currently undergoing political and economic transformation, we must simultaneously aim for urban and regional development. In doing so, we have focused on the wonderful traditional culture and craftsmanship possessed by each region of Myanmar, and we hope to develop Myanmar-made fashion and lifestyle goods as high-end commercial products in the country. Furthermore, women are the primary producers of Myanmar's handicrafts, and the country shares the same challenges as Japan when it comes to women's empowerment." Furthermore, Sukekawa Seiya, Chief of Overseas Regional Strategy in the Planning Department at the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), commented, "The number of Japanese companies expanding into Myanmar is increasing, and the country is attracting attention. This time, we held a fashion-themed event as a pioneer in our efforts to promote Myanmar's development, but we would like to further increase business opportunities for both countries by planning more mutual exchange events and exhibitions like this one in the future."
