Imagine walking into a gallery where every brushstroke tells a story, of heritage, identity, and heart. That’s exactly what visitors experienced at MR DIY Plus, Mid Valley Kuala Lumpur. This is where creativity from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia came together in a stunning display of talent. The MR DIY Regional Art Contest 2025, themed “Identity & Diversity”, marked a first for the beloved Malaysian brand. And what a debut it was!
When Art Becomes The Language Of Unity
This wasn’t just another art contest; it was a cultural bridge built on colour, emotion, and imagination.
A Canvas of Stories Across Nations
The competition brought together some of Southeast Asia’s most promising artists, all interpreting what “identity” means to them. Each masterpiece revealed a glimpse into its creator’s roots, from Indonesia’s vibrant traditions to Thailand’s graceful artistry and Malaysia’s rich multicultural heritage.
The exhibition, open to the public from 12 to 17 November 2025, showcased the national winners from each country, culminating in a regional celebration of unity through art. Visitors were treated to breathtaking visual narratives that went beyond aesthetics, they sparked conversations about who we are as a region.
Meet the Creative Champions
The judging panel, a mix of nine art experts from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, had the tough job of selecting the winners. Their criteria? Creativity, originality, and emotional connection.
And the winners did not disappoint:
- Public Category Grand Prize: Mohd Al-Khuzairie (Malaysia) for “In the Mood for Love: Time and Memory”, a piece that beautifully captures nostalgia and emotion.
- Educational Category Grand Prize: Diandra Lamees (Indonesia) for “Upacara Imlek Versiku”, an expressive depiction of personal and cultural celebration.
Art That Connects, Inspires, And Unites
According to MR DIY Group CEO Adrian Ong, this initiative is more than just a competition:
“It’s a celebration of who we are as a region. By connecting artists from different countries, we hope to inspire more creativity, understanding, and appreciation of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures.”
Since launching its art competition in 2022, MR DIY has been on a mission to nurture homegrown artistic talent. The overwhelming response inspired the brand to take it regional, proving that great art truly knows no borders.
From Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok to Jakarta, MR D.I.Y. continues to champion creativity, community, and cultural pride, all while reminding us that in the language of art, we’re more alike than we think.
