A wave of creative storm swept through GMBB this weekend as illustrators, toy makers and designers from across Malaysia, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and China gathered for KLIF 2025—the Kuala Lumpur Illustration Fair. Despite behind-the-scenes challenges, including delayed shipments, printing defects, technical hiccups, and frantic last-minute booth setups, the sheer commitment and resilience shown by participating artists were nothing short of inspiring.
This year marked my first visit to KLIF, and the experience was nothing less than magical. There was a palpable sense of wonder and excitement as I navigated through the fair, discovering one booth after another, each a reflection of its creator’s unique vision. It was a vivid reminder that creativity knows no borders.
Each booth told a story. Carefully curated, some interactive, they invited visitors not just to observe, but to engage. Some of the most memorable displays featured playful themes such as an “office of personality monsters,” nostalgic local “chap fan” (mixed rice) stalls, reimagined bus stops and minimarts, and even a whimsical take on bathroom scenes. These installations transformed ordinary spaces into multisensory experiences, bridging illustration with theater, design, and storytelling.
Some of the artists I spoke to shared that their inspiration stems from deeply personal experiences—both joyful and painful. Whether it was the isolation of quarantine, the curiosity sparked by everyday objects (like wondering what a banana peel might feel like), the process of adulthood or the grief of losing a loved one, their work reflects a spectrum of emotion and imagination.
I spent nearly six hours at KLIF, thoroughly immersed in the world of contemporary illustration. It’s an event that doesn’t just showcase artwork—it creates a community, embraces a spectrum of cultures, sparks curiosity, and reminds us of the power of visual storytelling.
For those who love illustration, zines, or creative journals, some booths offer stamping stations and collectibles —small treasures to take home from this artistic wonderland.
KLIF 2025 wraps up tomorrow, 4th May 2025 @ 8pm. If you’re in Kuala Lumpur, don’t miss the chance to witness this vibrant celebration of art and expression.