'We want both locals and tourists to experience the festive season by showcasing the classic Malaysian Hari Raya celebration,' says Wan Jepah. Photo: Jepah Studio
This festive season, a few airports in the country are rolling back the years with a tribute to old school Hari Raya celebrations, thanks to a collaboration between Malaysia Airports and Ipoh-based Jepah Studio.
Leading the 'Riang Ruih Raya' project is 26-year-old Wan Muhammad Huzaifah, better known as Wan Jepah.
The doodle, mural, and street artist has transformed airport spaces into whimsical scenes of kampung life, kedai runcits, and traditional pondoks, capturing the throwback essence of Raya in his signature doodle art style.
Wan Jepah poses with the kampung house installation, featuring a TV announcing Hari Raya. Photo: Jepah Studio
These installations, running through April 30, feature Wan Jepah's signature black-and-white style. He took two weeks to conceptualise the artworks and gather the props.
Locals and travellers can seek out these installations, with the largest at KLIA Terminal 1 and others at KLIA Terminal 2, Langkawi, Penang, and airports in Sabah and Sarawak.
The latest display was completed in three days at KLIA Terminal 1 this week. Featuring over 50 cartoon characters, the artworks offer a feelgood glimpse of Raya in small towns and villages.
Picking up a loved one at the airport this Raya? Stop by Jepah Studio’s ‘open house’ for a photo! Photo: Jepah Studio
As a comics fan, Wan Jepoh also added a wall of classic Malaysian comics to the installation, recalling a time when families enjoyed festive reads together instead of screens.
“Hari Raya feels different today, especially in atmosphere and community spirit. I wanted to bring back classic Raya scenes and memories, capturing the past with simplicity and warmth. My black-and-white doodle art adds to the retro feel,” says Wan Jepah.
A general view of Jepah Studio's 'Riang Riuh Raya' installation at KLIA (Terminal 1), where visitors can snap photos throughout the festive season. Photo: Jepah Studio
“If you look closely at the backdrop, you’ll notice various characters—each randomly drawn yet connected through their shared Raya celebrations. Their stories feel familiar, making it easy for visitors to relate and recall their own Raya memories,” he adds.
The brief was to bring festive fun to selected airports during the busy season. At KLIA, Wan Jepah and his team (of nine assistants) designed the installations for visitors to engage with, offering travellers a chance to unwind, explore the traditional setting, and capture memorable photos.
Wan Jepah poses inside a 'convenience store' installation at KLIA Terminal 1. Photo: Jepah Studio
“Tourists also get to experience Malaysia’s rich culture. As soon as we finished setting up, people gathered to take photos - it’s been great to see,” he says.
This series marks Jepah Studio’s first commissioned project for airport spaces.
“In the coming months, we’ll be creating artwork for a train project, which we’re excited about. But for now, our focus is on sharing the Raya spirit with all visitors, local and international,” concludes Wan Jepah.
