Crystal Producer Upbeat About Malaysian Market

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 -- Austria based-Swarovski is upbeat of Malaysia market's potential for loose cut crystal components as demand among business partners and the general public remains intact despite the recession.

Swarovski comprises two major businesses, one producing and selling loose crystal components and the other creating design driven finished products.

" Besides, with the rising Malaysian population that loves glam and sparkles, we are confident of the market share here," said Country Manager for South East Asia, Crystal Components Business, Anna Hoetzeneder in an interview with Bernama here Thursday.

She said the Malaysian market had the biggest potential and was the strongest market among the South East Asia region for its product brand, the Crystallized-Swarovski Elements.

The crystals provide a palette of inspiration for designers in the world of fashion, jewellery, accessories and interior designs.

" The purchasing power for luxury products among Malaysians is increasing. Demand is increasing from our local and international partners in Malaysia, particulary from top designers that carry our Swarovski elements in their own products," she added.

The product brand is used, among others, by luxury footwear designers Lewre Premiere and Jimmy Chia Luxury, fashion designers Melinda Looi and Eric Choong and electronic company Sony Malaysia.

Anna added that Swarovski was expecting more partners to emerge from among the textile and accessories industry in Malaysia.

She said the business potential for the product brand is growing as the brand is making waves in the region.

" We see positive developments despite the challenging times faced and in the last three years customers from various segments are inspired to use the components.

" South East Asia is an emerging market for Swarovski. With growth and demand both recording double digit growth per annum over the last three years, it certainly opens more business angles for Swarovski," Anna added.