ALDINNAN AK - From Occupational Therapist to Emerging Menswear Designer - Designer Label: Khaszrie by Ald AK | Kinarut, Sabah

 

For Aldinnan AK, 36, creativity began as a personal hobby during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, what started as a simple interest in sewing has evolved into a serious pursuit of fashion design, driven by curiosity, determination and a desire to refine his craft.

Based in Kinarut, Sabah, Aldinnan leads a dual professional life as an Occupational Therapist at Hospital Queen Elizabeth II (HQEII) and a self-taught fashion designer. While his healthcare career centres on helping others improve their quality of life, his creative journey allows him to express another side of himself through fabric, construction and design.

His fashion journey began with making outfits for friends, gradually building his confidence and practical experience. Without a conventional fashion-design background, Aldinnan has relied on independent learning, hands-on experimentation and a willingness to keep improving. Each new creation has become an opportunity to explore his abilities and discover the possibilities of his craft.

Under his label, Khaszrie by Ald AK, Aldinnan is developing a design identity that leans towards menswear, with a particular interest in performance outfits. His creative direction reflects an appreciation for distinctive silhouettes, expressive styling and garments designed to make an impression.

Recognizing that passion alone is not enough to master a craft, Aldinnan has begun challenging himself through competitions and design platforms, including RTK. These experiences offer opportunities to test his ideas, gain exposure and learn from the wider fashion community.

Inaugural events - RTK

For an emerging designer, every competition is more than a pursuit of recognition. It is a learning ground, a chance to understand the demands of design and an invitation to push beyond familiar boundaries.

Finalist with Ald AK design won numerous award

Aldinnan's story is a reminder that creative careers do not always begin in fashion schools or established studios. Sometimes, they begin at home, with a sewing machine, a willingness to experiment and the courage to turn a hobby into something more meaningful.

As Khaszrie by Ald AK continues to develop, Aldinnan is taking measured steps towards a stronger design identity, one stitch and one creation at a time.

Some design by Ald AK

His journey is still unfolding, but the ambition is clear: to grow, to create and to establish his own place in Sabah's evolving fashion scene.