The BURO Impact Awards celebrates the creativity, originality, passion, and accomplishments of Malaysia’s trailblazing talents. Ahead, find our conversation with our Face of the Year, Hariz Izu.
The modelling world is shifting. It’s no longer just about glossy covers or glamorous runways. Today, it’s about representation—making space for faces the industry hasn’t always noticed. With our rich tapestry of ethnicities and traditions, the local scene offers a unique palette of features and identities.
Some leave an impression the moment they enter a room. Hariz Izu is exactly that kind of force. With his androgynous edge that challenges traditional notions of beauty, he is redefining what it means to be a Malaysian model.
Hariz never planned to be a model. An introvert at heart, he had just left his previous job when he spotted an open call by The Models Lab KL, and something about it drew him in—a single decision that would change everything. He stayed the course, letting every experience shape the model he has become. This year alone, he has walked multiple shows at Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week, from Behati and MSYD to Uzair Shoid and Ghostboy, shaping each runway with his presence while bringing every collection to life.
In front of the camera, he brings the same versatility and intensity. His magazine spreads capture mood, emotion, and nuance with quiet authority. It is this delicate balance between restraint and magnetism, subtlety and power, that makes him more than just a model. Read on as our Face of the Year opens up about life beyond the runway and the camera.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I’d have to say my greatest achievement is being able to do what I do today. Modeling wasn’t exactly a clear-cut path for me, so the fact that I can wake up and call this my career still feels surreal at times. I’m proud that I put myself out there and gave it a shot, even when it didn’t seem entirely practical or realistic. Taking that leap is what set everything in motion and brought me to where I am now.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I’ve always wished I could paint and draw well. I’ve loved art for as long as I can remember and think I have a strong eye for it, but I never took the time to develop those skills! It’s something I feel I would genuinely enjoy if I devoted myself to practicing it.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My idea of perfect happiness is peace of mind. Waking up without feeling behind or pressured to prove myself to anyone is what truly feels fulfilling to me.
What is your greatest fear?
Rats! But on a more serious note, I think my greatest fear is wasted potential and ending up in a stagnant life. It’s not just about chasing success in the usual sense, but about feeling that my life and career have purpose. I want to keep moving and growing, so the idea of feeling stuck—mentally or physically—scares me!
Which living person do you most admire?
If I had to pick, it would be FKA Twigs. I’ve loved her since her first EP in 2012. She’s a visionary and a generational artist—no one matches her when it comes to world-building, performance, and the way she bridges anti-culture with music and fashion.
What is your greatest extravagance?
There are only a few things I really splurge on, and it’s definitely shoes and perfume! I feel like they make a lasting impression and are worth the investment. I also get monthly facials, but I’d consider that necessary maintenance rather than a splurge.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
Right now, I’d say the greatest love of my life is myself. The journey to self-love and kindness has been long, but it’s my most meaningful love story yet.
When and where were you happiest?
I’m happiest when I’m busy with work or when I’m out of the city—or even better, out of the country! There’s something about being in a new place that feels so liberating. I feel more daring, more experimental, and just more like myself.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I wish I were a little less in my head. Sometimes I catch myself overthinking everything—but then I notice it, let it pass, and I’m all good! Other than that, I’d say there’s nothing else I’d change about myself. I’ve spent years overanalysing and thinking about what I needed to change, so it feels nice to finally be making progress.
Where would you most like to live?
I’d love to go back to the States and live in New York. I spent some time between Boston and NYC for school before moving back home, and I’m eager to return, even if just for a short stint. I’m a city boy at heart and love the energy of bustling cities. That said, I’m also open to somewhere in Europe, like London or Paris, or somewhere closer to home, like Bangkok or Hong Kong.
What do you most value in your friends?
I value friends who are self-aware, genuine, and gracious—qualities I’m lucky to see in all my friends. They’re funny too and accept me for who I am, which is more than I could ask for!
What are the words you live by?
For now, my motto would have to be: ‘Let go, and let God!’
CREDITS
Editor-In-Chief / JASON LIM. Creative Direction and Styling / SARAH TAI. Text and Interview / BENEDICT UNANG. Styling Assisted by / BENEDICT UNANG. Art Direction Assisted by / EVE LYN LAU. Photography / HERRY CHIA EE | HERRY STUDIO ASSISTED BY DAVID ONG & SAMANTHA JANE. Videography / DENNIS KHO ASSISTED BY LEON WONG. Makeup / AYANG KAMELL. Hair / MAY WOO FOR SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL.
Follow Hariz on Instagram here. Find the full list of BURO Impact Awards winners here.
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