The scene at MR D.I.Y. Regional Art Competition
In November 2025, MR D.I.Y. marked a significant milestone with the launch of its inaugural MR D.I.Y. Regional Art Competition, a cross-border initiative spotlighting artistic talent from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The announcement of the regional winners at MR D.I.Y. Plus in Mid Valley, Kuala Lumpur, underscores the company’s commitment to fostering a dynamic creative ecosystem across Southeast Asia.
Themed “Identity & Diversity,” the competition drew submissions that explored cultural heritage, personal expression, and regional perspectives. These artworks, showcased at the MR D.I.Y. Regional Art Exhibition, offer a multidimensional view of Southeast Asia’s shared histories and distinct identities. Featuring the national winners from all three participating countries, the exhibition presents narratives that blend creativity with cultural introspection, reinforcing the role of the arts in fostering social connection and mutual understanding.
To ensure a rigorous and regionally balanced evaluation, MR D.I.Y. convened a distinguished panel of nine judges across Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The panel assessed entries based on creativity, originality, and alignment with the theme. Malaysia was represented by Ivan Gabriel, Bingley Sim, and Liong Mei Yin; the Thai panel comprised Vichaya Mukdamanee, Subhachog Jumsai Na Ayudhya, and Watjanasin Charuwattanakitti; while Indonesia fielded Ristyo Hartanto, Budhy Irawati, and Haryadi Tandio.
The regional competition culminated with the announcement of two top winners. In the Public Category, Mohd Al-Khuzairie from Malaysia earned the grand prize for his evocative piece, “In the Mood for Love: Time and Memory.” In the Educational Category, Indonesia’s Diandra Lamees secured the grand prize for “Upacara Imlek Versiku,” a visual interpretation of cultural celebration and personal identity.
A grand prize winner, Mohd Al-Khuzairie, with his art
Reflecting on the initiative, MR D.I.Y. Group’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Adrian Ong, shared, “This competition represents more than just art – 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 the diverse cultures that make up Southeast Asia.”
Originally launched in 2022 to nurture Malaysian artistic talent, the MR D.I.Y. Art Competition quickly demonstrated its potential to drive broader social impact. Strong participation and positive community response prompted the company to expand the program regionally, mirroring its long-term business growth strategy across Southeast Asia. Today, the initiative reinforces MR D.I.Y.’s commitment to championing arts and culture as catalysts for identity-building, inclusion, and community development.
For more details, visit mrdiy.com.my.
