CIMB Artober 2025 Showcases Art, Culture, and Philanthropy to Boost Malaysia’s Creative Economy
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 27 (VoM): Malaysia’s flagship annual art festival, CIMB Artober Art & Soul 2025, has returned for its fifth edition, underscoring efforts to strengthen the country’s creative economy and position it as a regional hub for cultural exchange.
The festival was launched by Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz, together with CIMB Group Chairman Datuk Syed Zaid Albar and Group CEO Novan Amirudin, in the presence of ASEAN Economic Ministers.
Novan Amirudin emphasized that Artober goes beyond exhibitions, serving as a platform to promote inclusivity, diversity, and community building across ASEAN. Since its inception in 2020, the initiative has generated over RM20 million for the arts sector, featuring about 1,000 artworks annually.
Exclusive showcase of works from the late art legend Datuk Ibrahim Hussein. Solo exhibitions by Prof. Zulkifli Yusoff, Daud Rahim, and Tan Kai Sheuan. Cultural heritage displays from the Mah Meri Cultural Village and the Malaysian Prison Department. Pahang Pavilion, initiated by Her Majesty Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, featuring Songtik® shawls and Sarawak textiles.
Art dialogues with Her Majesty Tunku Azizah and international guests. Art-meets-fashion showcase featuring singer Aina Abdul’s iconic stage outfits by designer Melinda Looi.
The festival also carries a humanitarian element, with an art auction on Sept 28 benefitting Mercy Malaysia’s Gaza relief efforts. Additionally, a new interactive digital catalogue allows collectors to visualize artworks within their homes. Dates: 26–28 September 2025, Time: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Venue: MITEC, Hall 1, Kuala Lumpur, CIMB cardholders enjoy up to 15% discounts on purchases at participating galleries.
With its integration of art, culture, fashion, and philanthropy, CIMB Artober 2025 stands out as one of Malaysia’s most important creative platforms, driving both heritage preservation and innovation.
@voice of Malaysia news