Empowering Women on Campus: Terlindung Saloon Opens Its Doors

by, Hani Rashid

GOMBAK, 19 December 2025: Terlindung, the first female-only saloon at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), officially celebrated its grand opening on Friday, 12 December 2025, at the Multi-Purpose Hall, IIUM, with approximately 50 female students in attendance.

The event was graced by prominent guests including Ustazah Asma Harun, singer-songwriter Fynn Jamal, and Nur Izzati, founder of Nurbella. The opening programme began with a talk titled “Menjaga Hati” by Ustazah Asma Harun, in which she highlighted the importance of proper hair care for women, even while wearing the hijab.

Fynn Jamal also participated in the discussion and treated attendees to a short, exclusive singing session for female guests. Following the talk, a gimmick ceremony was held in front of the saloon, officiated by Terlindung’s owner, Zamzam Zulaikha Binti Abu Shah, together with Ustazah Asma Harun. A brief meet-and-greet session with Ustazah Asma Harun and Fynn Jamal followed.

Free refreshments were provided for attendees, including the popular scones from Opah Strawberry, a business also owned by Mrs Zamzam.

In an interview, Mrs Zamzam shared that one of the main challenges she faced when establishing Terlindung was starting with zero knowledge about managing a saloon. She emphasised that careful planning, structured organisation, brainstorming sessions, and regular meetings with her team were key factors in making the business a reality.

Terlindung was established to cater specifically to female students seeking hair treatments conveniently within the campus and is currently the only female-only saloon at IIUM.

Looking ahead, Mrs Zamzam expressed her hope to expand the business by opening more branches in the next five years, once she gains more experience and knowledge in handling saloon operations. She also stressed the importance of continuously seeking knowledge as a way to grow and move forward.

To mark the opening, the first 50 students who book appointments will receive a 50 per cent discount on the day. Special student prices are also available. The event concluded successfully in the afternoon.***