East coast: Footwear company Kasut U has been named the official footwear partner for Pavilion Malaysia at Expo 2025 Osaka, marking another milestone for the homegrown brand as it steps onto the global stage.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kasut U, founded in 2002 in Kuala Terengganu under the name Kedai Kasut You Sdn Bhd, has expanded into a regional brand with more than 50 outlets nationwide and a growing e-commerce presence. Kasut U managing director Gan Raymond emphasized the significance of this achievement, showcasing the potential for Malaysian businesses to progress from small-town beginnings to achieve national and international recognition.
Gan expressed pride in providing product support to the Pavilion Malaysia team, highlighting that this recognition offers the local brand an international platform to demonstrate its value at an event that attracts millions of visitors from around the world. He remarked that the Pavilion Malaysia team's steps into Expo 2025 Osaka would carry a story of resilience and transformation, exemplifying the strength of Malaysian brands in a competitive global marketplace.
Gan noted the importance of prioritizing comfort over flashy designs, particularly for an event where Pavilion staff and performers will spend long hours on their feet. He stated that Malaysian design focuses on solving real human needs in practical, enduring ways. The best-selling range of Kasut U was selected for its comfort and durability, with insoles specifically designed to meet the physical demands of the expo environment. This product choice reflects practicality and a commitment to wellness.
The Pavilion's theme, 'Weaving a Future in Harmony,' mirrors Malaysia's blend of tradition and innovation, values that Kasut U embodies through its rooted family values and forward-looking product design and market expansion. Gan emphasized that the partnership is more than product placement; it reflects their belief that Malaysian design can compete globally while staying true to its roots. He added that comfort is universal and that Kasut U delivers it best.
As the Expo marks a significant milestone, Gan shared Kasut U's ambitions to expand beyond Malaysia. Guided by their motto, 'Quality is Life,' the company is investing in design innovation and operational efficiency to meet global standards, aspiring to become an international brand. Expo 2025 serves as an important milestone for introducing Kasut U to the world.
Gan also highlighted the broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda of Kasut U, emphasizing the importance of supporting a government-led initiative. He noted that the brand's CSR extends beyond local programs to include serving as ambassadors for Malaysia on the international stage, signaling that Malaysian companies have a duty to both shareholders and the nation's reputation abroad.