Malaysia's first kids’ museum in KL offers creative space for children

Young artists can proudly display their artworks and photographs at Mosaic. Photos: The Star/Low Lay Phon

Sarah Ziyaa Mohd Syukran is only six, but she can be proud of the fact that one of her artworks is displayed at the Museum of Science, Arts and Innovation for Children (Mosaic) in Jalan Tun Perak, Kuala Lumpur.

Mosaic is Malaysia’s first museum dedicated to children and Sarah Ziyaa’s painting of a honeybee, together with paintings by her classmates from a kindergarten in KL, is currently featured there.

“I feel happy that my painting is at Mosaic. It took me three months to complete the artwork. I hope people like my artwork. Maybe I can have more of my drawings at Mosaic,” said Sarah Ziyaa during Mosaic’s soft launch on Jan 24.

Mosaic, a RM600,000 project co-founded by brand strategist Fiza Zin, 49, and social activist Karimah Koh, 62, is funded by contributions from Think City and private supporters. While it is a private initiative, Mosaic has also been recognised and supported by Think City as part of the Kuala Lumpur Creative and Cultural District (KLCCD) strategic masterplan.

“As a parent, I noticed that children’s activities often have to take place in spaces meant for adults, like malls or galleries. It’s time for KL to have a dedicated space for kids to express themselves, be it in arts, science or hands-on activities like woodworking,” Fiza said.

Sarah Ziyaa stands proudly beside her artwork.

A hands-on approach

Mosaic aims to bridge socio-economic gaps by providing affordable learning opportunities for children aged between four and 12, with some programmes extending to teenagers.

The museum officially opened on Feb 1 and welcomes visitors from Wednesdays to Sundays (9am - 5.45pm).

Fiza’s and Karimah’s initiative to establish Mosaic is highly commendable, as it provides children with a space to nurture their creativity in a fun and interactive environment.

It took the women five years to conceptualise Mosaic.

Children’s museums are not a new concept; they have been designed for kids in many countries around the world. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum in New York, the United States, was established in the late 19th century, making it one of the first children’s museums in the world.

Fiza’s aim of having this museum is to enable every child to have the chance to discover their potential, no matter their background. She wants it to be an inclusive space where creativity, play and discovery come together, fostering lifelong friendships and shared learning experiences.

“During the pandemic, I volunteered with refugees and underprivileged children and observed how they used art to express themselves. Many of them are incredibly talented, but lack the opportunities to showcase their abilities.

Fiza hopes that the museum can give every child the chance to discover their potential.

“Spaces like Mosaic provide inclusive opportunities for all children, including marginalised groups. It allows them to grow, connect and express themselves. We want to empower the next generation of thinkers and creators. Mosaic aims to be a space where children can explore, play and learn in a fun and informal way,” said the mother of two.

Fun for all

Mosaic offers diverse programmes across its four floors, each catering to different interests.

The Play Area is designed for younger children to engage in sensory-rich exploration as well as physical play. Junior Makerspace is a hub for innovation, where kids can tinker, build and create. There is also a toy clinic where kids can learn how to recycle toys.

The Literacy Zone encourages a love for reading, writing and storytelling. There is also another corner called STEM Activities, which is focused on things related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

At the Children’s Art Gallery and Performing Arts space, kids can showcase their artworks and photographs.

Children delighting in a storytelling session led by illustrator Nor Azhar Ishak.

Mosaic also has a variety of activities and workshops lined up. With about four pre-booked sessions daily, each combining guided activities and free play, the aim is to foster creativity and learning. Past highlights include a picnic at KL’s Taman Tugu, street photography classes, and an introduction to writing and illustrating children’s books.

Upcoming sessions include a science discovery camp, a live portrait painting workshop, a clay workshop, an introduction to Malay traditional dance workshop, and a robotics session.

Fiza emphasised that Mosaic isn’t a corporate venture but a collective effort by individuals passionate about creating a better space for children. Advisors, including curators, architects and authors, have contributed their time and expertise to bring the vision to life.

“The museum also serves as a platform for workshops led by community teachers and volunteers. So far, we have organised a street photography course and art and science programmes.

Mosaic aims to be a space where children can explore, play and learn in a fun and informal way.

“Through our Pay It Forward initiative, for every paying child, an underserved child is sponsored, ensuring that financial constraints do not limit access to enriching learning experiences.

“This ensures inclusivity and provides opportunities for those who wouldn’t otherwise have access,” said Fiza, adding that people can browse mymosaic.com.my for more information.

Future plans include organising themed events, like children’s craft markets and cultural exchanges, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and community engagement.

“We are currently in discussions with volunteer teachers to offer music instrument lessons. We also plan to host baking and cooking activities for kids, with the possibility of having them sell their baked goods.

“In reimagining our city, we are creating more than just a museum – we are building a space where children and families can actively co-create, explore and dream about the future of KL,” said Fiza.