The delicate balance between preserving the rich cultural legacy of Orang Ulu motif patterns and adapting them to current items of ethnic wear made by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is examined in this research. The study explores how Orang Ulu motifs are used in modern clothing production in Sarawak, Malaysia, acknowledging the importance of community involvement in documenting and organising this cultural legacy. While they need to be protected, these culturally significant designs must also be relevant in contemporary fashion due to modernisation and changing consumer preferences. This study aims to examine factors influencing consumers’ purchase behaviour regarding ethnic wear or cultural clothing made by SMEs. Cultural anthropology, design innovation and business development were used to examine how SMEs might preserve Orang Ulu culture. Interviews, surveys and design studies were employed to understand producer and customer preferences and expectations. Relevant variables were obtained from a literature review. This empirical study used a well-structured face-to-face and internet-based customer questionnaire to survey 194 respondents. SPSS software was used to analyse the data using ranking scale analysis, analysis of variance and Pearson's correlation. This research identifies several techniques for incorporating traditional Orang Ulu motif designs into contemporary ethnic clothing to help SMEs balance cultural preservation and market viability. The complex process of conserving cultural themes despite global developments is explored, emphasising the need for adaptation to maintain cultural identity in the global market. The research will help SME owners and entrepreneurs meet customer expectations and build brand loyalty. The study’s limitations include a small sample size and a focus on consumer behaviour towards transformative ethnic wear made by SMEs, so the results cannot be applied to other firm types. SMEs making transformative ethnic wear are crucial for economic diversification, particularly in developing nations like Malaysia.
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