CIMB Artober 2026 Empowers Artists, Drives Malaysia’s Creative Economy

KUALA LUMPUR: CIMB Artober 2026 returned for its sixth year yesterday, aiming to empower local artists, strengthen community connections and boost Malaysia’s creative economy.

Organised by CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (CIMB), the five-day event runs from October 28 to November 1 at Ombak KLCC, Kuala Lumpur, featuring 15 galleries and creative entrepreneurs.

The official launch was officiated by the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj, accompanied by CIMB Group Chairman Datuk Syed Zaid Albar and CIMB Group Chief Executive Officer Novan Amirudin.

Novan said the value of art goes beyond the works on display, highlighting its ability to create opportunities, connect people and benefit communities.

He said CIMB Artober provides a platform for emerging artists and artists with disabilities to develop their talents and access economic opportunities.

“The value of art goes beyond what we see. It lies in its ability to open doors, connect people and create opportunities.

“Through Artober, we want to provide a platform for emerging artists and artists with disabilities to thrive, while building stronger connections between the arts, businesses and communities,” he said in a statement.

Among the event’s highlights is an art auction curated by MERCY Malaysia on November 1, with proceeds channelled to MERCY Malaysia’s General Humanitarian Fund.

The programme also features Frienden Arts, a local art platform and gallery founded by Branden Lim, an artist living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

The platform showcases artworks by artists with disabilities and individuals living with rare conditions, helping them reach wider audiences and generate income.

Since its introduction in 2020, CIMB Artober has raised more than RM23 million for the art community.

Visitors can explore art exhibitions, art appreciation programmes and knowledge-sharing sessions, as well as interact directly with artists, galleries, collectors and art experts.

Participating artists include Mohd Al-Khuzairie, Fawwaz Sukri, Najib Bamadhaj, Eiffel Chong, Khabir Roslan, Haafiz Shahimi, James Seet and Bayu Utomo Radjikin.

CIMB Artober 2026 is open to the public with free admission from 10am to 10pm throughout the five-day event.

CIMB cardholders can also enjoy discounts starting from 10 per cent on artwork purchases at participating galleries, subject to terms and conditions.

Vom24.com