A view of the event space featuring a giant-sized Pikachu at LaLaport BBCC. — Photos: MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
THIS Christmas, the star of the show at one local mall is not Santa Claus, but anime characters that can shrink and be captured in balls small enough to fit into one’s pocket.
Those in their mid-30s will immediately recognise these as “pocket monsters”, or Pokemon – the Japanese media franchise known for its video games, anime, films and trading cards.
The event, ongoing at Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre (LaLaport) until Jan 4, 2026, features the franchise’s mascot Pikachu, a large yellow mouse with a lightning bolt-shaped tail.
In addition to stage appearances, the mascot will be available for selfies with fans.
While the main attraction is located at the mall’s main atrium, another popular selfie spot is a giant Christmas tree decorated with Pokemon characters at the Wow Plaza near the south entrance.
Seen posing in front of the tree were sisters Hanna and Hazel Quinn, aged 11 and seven respectively.
Their father Albert Handhoko, 37, said they were tourists from Indonesia who had chosen Kuala Lumpur for their holiday.
“It was Hazel who told me the mall was having a Pokemon-themed Christmas after seeing the announcement on social media.
“I also played the Pokemon video game in my teens, so I have a nostalgic connection with the characters. That’s why we find this event attractive,” said Handhoko.
LaLaport operations general manager Hiroaki Kazume attributed the decision to use an anime theme to the mall’s strong Japanese DNA, as Mitsui Fudosan Asia – a Japanese real estate company – holds a 50% stake in the mall.
Kazume (left) with The Pokemon Company Asia Business Development Department director Ray Kagami at the launch of ‘LaLaport Pokemon Happy Holidays’.
The remainder is owned by the shareholders of Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC) Development Sdn Bhd.
“We did this after seeing that it was a globally recognised brand with a strong multi-generational fan base.
“This allows us to create an experience that resonates with a wide and diverse audience as its universal and evergreen appeal makes it suitable for families, youths and adults alike, ensuring the campaign remains relevant and engaging for our shoppers.
“Additionally, we have an established working relationship with the intellectual property holder, which has enabled smoother discussions, better creative alignment and the ability to roll out a more cohesive and impactful campaign,” said Kazume.
During the promotion period, shoppers can “hunt” for Pokemon throughout the mall using game apps and global positioning system (GPS).
A sticker collection quest is also available – those who complete the full set of 40 stickers can redeem a limited-edition Pokemon sticker set.
Pokemon card game enthusiasts can enjoy free trading card game tutorials, learning battle strategies and gameplay tips.
For those who prefer digital action, demos and hands-on sessions for the latest games are available.
Stamp collectors can visit the Pos Malaysia booth, where a special edition Pokemon stamp folder set – containing stamps, folder, envelope and postcards – is sold for RM99.
