MONTE CARLO - The Monte Carlo Sporting Club, located on Monaco's Avenue Princesse Grace and the centre of attraction at the Cote d'Azur, was a dazzling location for the 4th edition of the International Islamic Fashion Festival.

Only a few nights ago, the club played host to legendary singer Sir Elton John and his special guest, Ray Cooper.

But on the biggest night of nights for the IFF (a first on European soil), the famous Salle des Etoiles, with its retractable roof and bay windows overlooking town, became the stage for the best in Islamic fashion.

Designers at the event included Datuk Tom Abang Saufi, Melinda Looi, as well as prominent Indonesian designers Itang Yunasz and Ghea Panggabhean.

The event, sponsored by the Sarawak Tourism Board and sparkling with members of the Monegasque Princely Family, was also graced by Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Other distinguished guests were the Prime Minister of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Jassim, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor and Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.

In her speech, Rosmah, who is a patron of the IFF, said the Malaysian-inspired festival had made the long journey to Monaco to change perceptions and strengthen the bond between different countries.

"I'm delighted that the IFF has been given the opportunity to take centre stage here in Monaco, which is an international capital of luxury fashion that has inspired the creations of many designers around the world," she said.

Malaysia, she added, was well placed to play a major role in the Islamic fashion movement.

"We boast the location, tradition and gifted designers who can infuse traditional styles with modern sensibility.

"Malaysia is already a recognised model for the Muslim world, not only for its moderate approach to religion and syariah, but also for its pioneering efforts in Islamic commerce and as a well-known halal hub," she said.