Splendour of the spiritual at Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

The 'Alif Lam Ra: Contemporary Muslim Calligraphy' exhibition, spread across two halls at IAMM, features the works of 42 contemporary Islamic calligraphers from various countries. Photo: The Star/William Gary

On a recent Tuesday morning, barely an hour after its doors opened, the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur had steadily filled up with a stream of visitors eager to immerse themselves in two captivating exhibitions. These shows were put together to celebrate the museum’s 25th anniversary.

The morning scenes were a refreshing sight – considering how most museums and cultural institutions in Malaysia are ghost towns – as enthusiasts and curious patrons gathered at the entrance, forming a diverse tapestry of individuals united by their shared interest, or curiosity, in the showcased collection.