Mengye Liu
PhD Candidate
Kuala Lumpur
Summary
I am a PhD candidate in Visual Art at Universiti Malaya, researching the intersection of punk subculture, gender, and Muslim identity. With a background in fashion, holding both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in the field, I developed a deep interest in how clothing and fashion influence and reflect identity. My research focuses on how gender, religion, and subcultural aesthetics come together, particularly in the ways dress can challenge societal norms and reshape personal and cultural narratives.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Merchandising Manager
Shanghai SILK Group Co., Ltd.
Shanghai
08.2021 - 08.2022
Senior Fashion Merchandiser
Bestseller Fashion Group (TIANJIN) Co., Ltd.
09.2018 - 08.2021
Although I began my academic journey later, my industry experience has profoundly shaped my approach to research and learning. Working in a fast-paced, multicultural environment taught me how to manage pressure, adapt to challenges, and turn obstacles into motivation. This background sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills, giving me the resilience and focus to complete my PhD in just 2.5 years. It continues to fuel my curiosity and provides unique perspectives on the intersections of culture, creativity, and human expression.
Education
Ph.D. - Visual Culture
Universiti Malaya
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 10.2022 - 03.2025
Master of Arts - Master of Fashion Entrepreneurship
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Australia 03.2014 - 12.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Design
Dalian Polytechnic University
Dalian, China 09.2009 - 07.2013
Skills
Ethnographic and Visual Research
- Conducted a PhD study on Malaysia’s punk scene using visual ethnography, combining visual imagery, object analysis, semi-structured interviews, and participant observation to explore cultural dynamics and identities
Cultural Sensitivity and Research Ethics
- Experienced in ethically navigating culturally sensitive research, ensuring participant privacy, informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity, and confidentiality throughout the PhD study
Grant Application Assistance
- Supported academic funding applications, including the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) in Malaysia and The Sumitomo Foundation: Japan-Related Research Projects
Academic Publication and Achievements
- “Sartorial Subversion in Subculture of Malaysian Female Muslim Punks,” 21th May, 2024, International Journal of Cultural Studies (SSCI&AHCI Q1);
- “Sartorial Strategies of Female Punks in Malaysia’s Socio-Religious Landscape,” 4th Oct, 2024, Fashion Theory (AHCI Q1);
- “We are not immoral”: Exploring the Intersectional Identities of Muslim Women Through Dress in Malaysia’s Punk Scene; under review.
Academic Presentation:
- Present at the IASPM-SEA and IAPMS Joint Conference 2024 with the theme Human and More-Than-Human Entanglements: Popular Music Performance, Education, and Technologies. 25th -27th July 2024;
- Academic Talk: "Using NVivo for Qualitative Analysis: From Codes to Themes," presented on campus.15th Nov, 2024
Timeline
Ph.D. - Visual Culture
Universiti Malaya
10.2022 - 03.2025
Merchandising Manager
Shanghai SILK Group Co., Ltd.
08.2021 - 08.2022
Senior Fashion Merchandiser
Bestseller Fashion Group (TIANJIN) Co., Ltd.
09.2018 - 08.2021
Master of Arts - Master of Fashion Entrepreneurship
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
03.2014 - 12.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Fashion Design
Dalian Polytechnic University
09.2009 - 07.2013
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