Sarawakian sape player and storyteller Lofrine Layam performs at an open house event at Tokosue in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong
Tokosue, a rare independent bookshop in the heart of Kuala Lumpur where indie literature, fanzines, music, poetry, and alternative culture converged, is set to close its doors.
Despite a heartfelt "save-a-bookshop" campaign launched in March, economic pressures and personal circumstances have made its continued existence unsustainable.
Established in 2022 by Suzana Ahmad, better known as Sue Emoqwin, and located in Wisma Central, Tokosue became one of the capital’s few sanctuaries that welcomed all.
Its closure marks not just the end of a shop, but the disappearance of a unique space that was a stage, a meeting place, and a haven for curiosity, connection, and cultural exchange.
Modest in size, Tokosue offers a diverse array of indie books on its racks. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong
“With a heavy heart, I wish to let you know that Tokosue will be closing its doors permanently. This has not been an easy decision. Since we opened the physical shop in 2022, Tokosue has been more than an indie bookstore and zine space. It has been a community built on love for stories, creativity, and the courage to dream differently,” Sue Emoqwin posted on social media.
“However, despite our various efforts, including a book sale campaign that went viral in March this year, the business model has not been sustainable. After much reflection, I believe the most responsible step is to close Tokosue rather than prolong struggles with debts and limited resources.”
As indie culture grew (post pandemic), Tokosue became a key destination for fans of independent publishing, providing a platform for local writers, illustrators, and small-press makers. It hosted zine fairs, exhibitions, readings, and other DIY events. Many in the creative scene remember it as more than a shop, crediting Sue Emoqwin for nurturing emerging voices.
Suzana Ahmad, fondly known as Sue Emoqwin, turned Tokosue into a welcoming hub for stories, ideas, and creative exchange. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong
“I first met Kak Sue a decade ago when I started doing poetry. As our friendship grew, it was natural to know about Tokosue. My fondest memories are of conducting workshops and launching books there. Tokosue was more than a bookstore; it was a safe space. It will be dearly missed,” said Jack Malik, a poet, writer and cultural activist.
Illustrator and comic book artist Mel Ding described the shop as a launchpad for new artists – a small corner in KL willing to place unknown creators on the shelves and champion their work.
“Tokosue was the first bookstore I ever reached out to stock one of my comics (The Kids Are Alright). From the start, Sue was welcoming and genuinely interested in my ideas. She got excited talking about books, projects, comics, and publishing. Her openness and insight really helped a newbie like me feel I could carve out a space for myself,” said Ding.
Tokosue, which hosted many book launches, zine fairs, and community events over three years, has announced its closure. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong
Author Farah Liyana, who hosted a signing for her book Be Kind, Rewind, recalled Tokosue as a space where readers truly listened - a friendly platform that allowed her to connect, share, and create in an intimate, open atmosphere.
“When one enters Tokosue, they are hugged by thousands of voices from all ages and phases in life. It was a sanctuary for emerging writers often overlooked by the industry. My book signing there was intimate and open – a space to discuss and innovate with readers. Tokosue gave me room to breathe and create,” said Farah.
Connections forged at Tokosue often reached far beyond its walls, creating enduring friendships and networks that strengthened the indie and creative scenes - locally, regionally, and even internationally.
Ipoh poet Karmaa.iw grabs the crowd's attention at an event at Tokosue in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong
“Since the early days of Svara, Tokosue was among the first bookshops to carry our journals in large numbers. We are deeply grateful for Tokosue’s support over the years,” read a message from the publishers of Svara, an independent Malaysian literary and culture journal.
In another social media post, Amir Muhammad, a writer, book publisher, and indie filmmaker, wrote poignantly: “Sue has created a space for many people. Nothing wrong with stepping back and having space for herself. This too shall pass.”
The public can still support Tokosue: a 30-day clearance sale runs through October, with up to 70% off books, zines, and other items. Proceeds will help cover closure costs and settle outstanding commitments with vendors.
