Malaysia's presence at one of the world's most influential design trade fairs took center stage when Malaysian Ambassador to France, Dato' Eideen Husaini Mohd Hashim, visited the RK Resources x Hévéa House booth at Maison&Objet Paris 2025. His visit marked the official debut of a unique collaboration between Malaysia, Vietnam, and France, underscoring ASEAN design's growing visibility on the global stage.
© Hévéa House
Dato' Eideen (third from left) with RK representatives Jessica Lin and Yeoh at the RK Resources x Hévéa House booth during Maison&Objet Paris 2025.
Cross-border synergy driving innovation
For the first time, RK Resources and French design office Hévéa House showcased their joint creations in Paris. The partnership combines Malaysian design leadership, Vietnamese manufacturing expertise, and the creative strength of the French design ecosystem. The result: bold new perspectives that highlight the power of cross-border collaboration.
"Innovation and boldness are keys to global success"
Accompanied by Yik Sing Chan, Trade Commissioner of MATRADE Paris, Ambassador Dato' Eideen emphasised the central role of innovation in today's shifting global economy.
"Continuous innovation and bold design are crucial to sustaining brand vitality on the international stage," he said. He observed that traditional styles are losing relevance, while contemporary and culturally rooted creations are capturing worldwide attention.
Tropical inspiration in the heart of Europe
At the fair, RK Resources and Hévéa House unveiled a collection of five furniture designs under the theme "Tropical Inspiration." Blending Malaysian–Vietnamese craftsmanship with the artistic vision of French illustrator Aurélie Deve, the collection brought the essence of Southeast Asia's tropics into Europe's design spotlight.
Opportunities amid global challenges
Acknowledging political uncertainty in France and the pressures of tariffs and protectionist policies, Dato' Eideen noted that economic vitality remains strong, as reflected in the high turnout at global events such as the Olympic Games and major football tournaments. He further stressed that rapidly growing regions like Africa present fresh opportunities for Malaysian businesses.
Malaysia's global design ambition
According to the ambassador, Maison&Objet is not just a platform to meet European buyers. It also serves as a gateway to emerging markets in Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.
The debut of RK Resources and Hévéa House, he said, represents more than participation in a design fair. It reflects Malaysia's creative strength, its sustainability commitment under the vision "From Forest to Future," and its determination to step confidently into the evolving global design narrative.
More information:
Hévéa House
[email protected]
www.heveahouse.fr
France
