Kuala Lumpur Art Book Fair returns bigger than ever

The Kuala Lumpur Art Book Fair (KLABF) is set to make a major return in 2025, marking its fifth edition with its largest and most diverse programme to date. What began in 2021 as a modest indie gathering celebrating artist-run culture and self-publishing has rapidly evolved into Malaysia’s leading platform for printed matter, drawing creators and enthusiasts from around the world. This year, organisers promise an expanded three-day experience dedicated to artistic exchange, experimental storytelling, and cross-cultural collaboration.

A growing global community of creators

KLABF 2025 will convene more than 125 exhibitors from over 20 countries, reinforcing Kuala Lumpur’s rising reputation as a regional creative hub. Participating artists, designers, printmakers, writers, illustrators, and independent publishers represent an eclectic mix of perspectives from Japan, Thailand, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United States, Vietnam, Indonesia, South Korea, China, and beyond.

Fairgoers can expect a sprawling showcase of limited-edition art books, zines, experimental publications, and unique printworks that highlight the breadth of contemporary independent publishing. The event continues to resonate with a growing community that views publishing not merely as production, but as artistic expression — a medium where visual language, texture, and narrative converge.

Multidisciplinary collaborations

This year’s edition features the fair’s most ambitious line-up of programmes and collaborations. Local collectives and creative groups will anchor exhibitions that explore the possibilities of printed matter, including presentations by RJ Paper and 00123 Books. Multimedia experiences will add further dimension, with Filamen leading projection mapping installations and partners such as Freedom Film Network, Karafuru Visuals, Rumah Kosong, and Borneo Komrad curating an array of film screenings.

A Polaroid photobooth by Zontiga brings a nostalgic touch, while visitors can also look forward to a major graphic design exhibition featuring works by the recipients of the prestigious 2025 JAGDA New Designer Award — Tetsuro Jozaki, Sarene Chan, and Hirokazu Matsuda. Their showcase blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary interpretations across posters, sculptures, packaging and branding, offering a rare opportunity to encounter award-winning international design in Kuala Lumpur.

New experiences for fairgoers

Beyond exhibitions and showcases, KLABF 2025 introduces an expanded merchandise collaboration to commemorate the fair’s milestone year. Limited-edition items co-created with stationery brand Ana Tomy will be available for pre-order, giving collectors the chance to secure exclusive memorabilia. The fair has also teamed up with Mossery to produce 22 special-edition covers inspired by selected designs from this year’s exhibitors, adding a personal and collectible element to the event.

The programme will continue to champion community engagement, with a full roster of talks, workshops, conferences, and special showcases designed to encourage conversation and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Organisers hope the event will serve as a celebratory meeting point for the public, artists, and publishers — a vibrant space where printed matter continues to evolve and inspire.

As Kuala Lumpur’s creative scene grows in visibility and ambition, KLABF 2025 stands poised to cement the city’s role as a gathering place for Southeast Asia’s most compelling ideas in art and publishing.