In the world of international sports, the design of a nation's official attire is more than just fabric and threads — it is a powerful symbol of national pride and identity.

Recently, Malaysia's official contingent attire for the Paris 2024 Olympics, which was revealed on 23 June 2024, sparked significant controversy, drawing criticism from many who felt it did not adequately represent the country's heritage and aesthetics.

This reaction underscores the critical importance of good branding and thoughtful design in creating attire that not only unites and inspires athletes but also resonates with the public. Following this, the Olympic Council of Malaysia is embarking on a redesign, and this highlights a broader conversation about the elements that make for compelling and meaningful national branding in the global arena.

Today, we discuss the power of nation branding, and how and why Malaysia needs to do a better job at presenting her brand story to the world, with Faridah Hameed, the Founder of Communication Mastery Resources.