KLZE: an inclusive celebration of zines, art and independent voices

Featuring over 30 vendors, Kuala Lumpur Zine Etc offers zine-makers and collectives a platform to share their work, connect with the public, and explore themes of art, identity, and independent media. Photo: The Star/Faihan Ghani

A new zine festival, Kuala Lumpur Zine Etc (KLZE), aims to support and grow the local zine community.

The three-day festival – set to take place at the Kuala Lumpur & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH) from Aug 1–3 – will bring together zinesters, artists, writers, small publishers, and DIY creators to celebrate the dynamic culture of self-publishing and grassroots creativity.

Previously, there was the KL Zine Fest, last held in 2023.

Artist CC Kua, known for her limited edition zine catalogues, will release a sketchbook zine and poster compiling works from 2020–2025. Photo: CC Kua

KLZE now emerges under the care of a new collective, comprising Rumah Attap Library and Collective, online bookstore Otter is Reading, indie bookshop Tokosue, as well as friends and supporters of the original KL Zine Fest.

Featuring over 30 vendors – including CC Kua, Lostgens’ Artspace, Gerimis Art, Mythologie, and Pipit Press – KLZE provides a platform for zine-makers and collectives from Malaysia and beyond to showcase their work, engage the public, and exchange ideas on art, identity, self-expression, and independent media.

Visitors can explore a market of self-published and independently printed works from local and international creators, including participants from Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

Lostgens’ will present a pop-up printmaking station where visitors can create zines and postcards using printing blocks, and learn to design, carve, and print their own linocut or woodcut zines. Photo: Lostgens'

The event also features talks, exhibitions, and open mics, offering insights and opportunities for dialogue. Additionally, a range of workshops – covering zine-making, woodcutting, and Riso printing – invites attendees to experience these creative processes firsthand in an accessible and engaging way.

Inclusive and independent 

The “etc” in the festival’s name reflects its inclusive, open-ended spirit.

According to Low Choon Chyuan from the KLZE organising team, it signals that the festival extends beyond zines alone.

“We welcome other independent and DIY publications, including those who make stickers, posters and books,” he says.

There will also be film screenings, including Legiun Tulang Lunak: 20 Centimeters Per Year, a documentary capturing 20 years of work by Indonesian art collective Kolektif Hysteria.

Bang Bang Zine co-founders (from left) Teh Chya Chyi, Wong Mun Yeong and Leong Shin Mun (Shermene) will share their zines and discuss their journey from pop-ups to a permanent shop. Photo: Faihan Ghani/The Star

Festival highlights include a Risograph printing workshop by KL-based collective Bang Bang Zine, a collage workshop by artist Rupa Subramaniam, and a saddle stitch bookbinding workshop with Fishah and Andrialis – perfect for anyone keen to start making their own zines.

In conjunction with Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship this year, KLZE will also explore themes such as independent art, print culture, Asian heritage, and freedom of expression.

“It’s our first time organising KLZE, so our vision is to be an inclusive gathering for readers, creators, collectors, explorers and thinkers of all backgrounds. We hope our vendors, volunteers and visitors will be able to make meaningful connections and enjoy the festival,” says Low.

Kuala Lumpur Zine Etc will be at Kuala Lumpur & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), Jalan Maharajalela, Kampung Attap in Kuala Lumpur from Aug 1-3. Entry: RM10, including a RM5 voucher to support and purchase zines.