The Story Behind the DOTY 2026 Trophy

Every trophy tells a story. For the Designer of the Year Award (DOTY) 2026 Trophy, that story begins with an idea.

Inspired by the theme “16 Years of Design Intelligence,” Alan Fong, Design Principal and Director of Millimetre Design Sdn Bhd, set out to create a trophy that represents more than achievement. He reimagined the number “16” into a sculptural form that symbolises growth, renewal and the continuous evolution of good design.

But beyond its sleek appearance lies a deeper purpose.

During a visit to Global Titanium Coating Sdn Bhd, this year’s trophy partner, Alan noticed discarded stainless steel pieces around the factory. Instead of seeing waste, he saw potential. Those leftover materials became the foundation of the DOTY 2026 Trophy.

The concept reflects Alan’s belief that design intelligence is not only about creativity. It is also about making responsible choices that create a lasting impact.

“Sustainability isn’t something extra. It is the foundation,” he said.

Creating the trophy was not without its challenges. Every piece of reclaimed material was different, requiring careful craftsmanship to transform it into a refined and consistent final product. Working closely with the team at Global Titanium Coating, Alan successfully gave new life to materials that would otherwise have been discarded.

For Alan, the trophy is more than a symbol of achievement.

“Every time a designer sees this trophy, I hope they remember that design begins with responsibility. I want them to think about how they can design with a lasting impact,” he added.

The DOTY 2026 Trophy is a reflection of this year’s theme, “16 Years of Design Intelligence.” It celebrates excellence while reminding designers that true intelligence in design is measured not only by creativity, but also by responsibility, purpose and the legacy left behind.

About the Designer of the Year Awards

The Designer of the Year Award (DOTY) aspires to discover and honour the exceptional works of talented designers from Malaysia and beyond. It sets the benchmark of excellence in design and is committed to championing them in architecture and interior.

The theme of DOTY 2026, “Celebrating Design Intelligence”, highlights how design has evolved beyond mere aesthetics to encompass functionality and sustainability, where user experience, environmentally-friendly materials and technology integration are essential to well-being and efficiency.

About Alan Fong and Millimetre Design Sdn Bhd

Alan Fong and partner Vienna Chew co-founded Millimetre Design Sdn Bhd, a Kuala Lumpur-based design and build firm, in 2011. As the firm’s Design Principal and Director, Alan Fong leads with a visionary approach that fuses creative design thinking with real-world execution. Specialising in large-scale development and commercial projects, he has delivered transformative environments for industry giants.

Millimetre Design Sdn Bhd has been at the forefront of the commercial development industry with projects ranging from office experience centres to public spaces and retail outlets. Over the years, these projects reflect the firm’s ongoing commitment towards sustainability in design, where it is no longer a secondary narrative, but a core direction shaping the future of the industry.

“In this regard, it may also be meaningful for the media to further highlight and champion sustainability-driven stories, as it not only raises awareness but also sets a stronger benchmark for the design community.

“This thinking informed the trophy design for the 16th Designer of the Year Awards, where we sought to express these values both conceptually and materially,” Alan Fong notes, in his role as the trophy designer for DOTY 2026.

Visit doty.com.my for more information.