A file image of the KLABF x Tokyo TDC exhibition last year. Photo: The Star/Low Lay Phon
The Kuala Lumpur Art Book Fair 2025 (KLABF) returns next week with its biggest edition yet, marking five years of championing artist-run culture, self-publishing, and independent printed matter.
This year’s fair, running at the KL & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), Jalan Maharajalela in Kuala Lumpur from Nov 28-30, brings together more than 125 local and international exhibitors from over 20 countries. The event is supported by Think City and Merdeka 118, with Warisan KL as initiative partner.
“It’s been very encouraging over the past few years, we’ve received a lot of positive feedback not only from visitors, but also from exhibitors who appreciate having a platform where they can showcase their work and learn from one another,” says Driv Loo, founder and creative director of KLABF.
What began in 2021 (with pandemic restrictions back then) as a modest meet-up for indie art-book lovers has grown into one of the city’s most anticipated creative events, now drawing thousands each year.
Visitors can expect a spread of art books, zines, comics, photography, magazines, posters, archive-based material, music, graphic design, architecture projects and more. As independent publishing gains momentum, so has the fair’s following, with organisers preparing for its biggest turnout yet next weekend.
KL Art Book Fair has seen growing participation and attendance over the past four years, reflecting the rising appetite for artist-run culture. Photo: KLABF
“Attendance has risen steadily - from about 1,500 visitors in 2021, to 3,000, then 4,000, and nearly 5,000 last year. This year, we’re aiming for over 6,000 attendees and an even more diverse crowd,” says Loo.
Homegrown creators remain a strong presence too, with names like Minifanfan, Suburbia Projects, Ajim Juxta, Engku Iman, CC Kua, cloud projects, Bang Bang Zine, Munkao, meybees, Humana, huruf and more.
One of the key expansions this year is the introduction of more dedicated programme spaces.
IMMERSIOx, an immersive art exhibition by digital collective Filamen, will take over the Bao Song Meeting Room on the first floor.
Haus of Swiss Books presents a showcase of award-winning books from eight Swiss independent art publishers. For visitors looking to take home a keepsake, Zontiga will host a Polaroid photobooth titled "Into The Timeless Frame" at the Central Atrium.
KL & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH) on Jalan Maharajalela, Kuala Lumpur, will host KLABF 2025 from Nov 28–30. Photo: The Star/Filepic
“By spreading activities across multiple spaces, we hope to improve visitor flow and ensure that the main hall doesn’t become too crowded,” says Loo.
RJ Paper’s Printed Matter Room also returns as a temporary library, showcasing nearly 40 years of archives and inviting visitors to explore print in a digital age.
KLABF welcomes special guest Michalis Pichler of Berlin-based Miss Read to discuss bibliodiversity and independent publishing, while talks and workshops include Farah Liyana’s Making Local Horrors Whimsical, exploring Malaysian folklore, sci-fi, and horror.
Limited-edition merchandise and notebook covers by Ana Tomy, Mossery, and participating exhibitors add to the fair’s appeal for collectors and newcomers alike.
KLABF is a ticketed event with full-day access to all programmes unless stated otherwise. Children 12 and under enter free.
