Esther Tai

Co-Founder at Machino

Esther Tai is the founder of Machino, a contemporary lifestyle brand known for its refined approach to footwear design, blending minimalist aesthetics with everyday functionality. Under her direction, Machino has established a distinct presence in the regional fashion landscape, offering thoughtfully designed pieces that prioritise form, comfort, and versatility for the modern consumer. With a background in design and brand development, Esther built Machino with a clear focus on product integrity and long-term brand identity, navigating the complexities of manufacturing, retail, and consumer positioning. Her approach centres on creating enduring designs rather than trend-driven releases, positioning Machino as a brand that reflects a more considered, intentional approach to style and craftsmanship.

In Their Words

“It’s not just about compromise, it’s about making sure both voices are heard.”

“A shoe isn’t just a product, it’s part of someone’s milestone.”

“You’ll never know if you don’t try.”

“One person can do a lot but a team can take you far.”

“You need both, good attitude and good performance.”

FEATURED ON

Machino: From RM100K & Family Ties to Budding 8-Figure Biz

BFM 89.9 • 25 Aug 2025

Launched in the midst of the 2020 pandemic, Malaysian footwear brand Machino is on a mission to prove you don't have to sacrifice comfort for style. Now a seven-figure business with ambitions to hit eight figures this year, what's the story behind these two sisters and their shoe brand?

These young M’sian sisters launched a shoe brand specialising in comfy, handcrafted footwear

Vulcan Post • 05 Jul 2023

In this modern era, you no longer need to settle for uncomfortable or painful footwear to look good. There are growing options for comfortable yet stylish shoes for both men and women, even locally, but it’s not quite the norm yet.

If The Shoe Fits, Wear Machino

BFM 89.9 • 12 Jul 2022

Co-founders of local shoe brand Machino, Esther and Amy Tai, discuss promoting Malaysia’s diverse culture in their branding and marketing, using batik and songket materials in their products to promote our unique heritage and culture, and how their shoes truly fit the Malaysian market.