With each passing year, creativity takes flight. True artistry never stops in the hands of the gifted, and it’s always uplifting to witness organic ideation flowing from Malaysian creators. Alongside other arts patrons, UOB Malaysia has consistently championed the growth of our nation’s creative talent. Over the years, the UOB Painting of the Year (POY) award has become a key platform for artists to showcase their work, whether they are seasoned or up-and-coming voices. In its 15th edition, this year’s ceremony at Sentul Pavilion once again offered an inspiring glimpse into Malaysia’s artistic future.
The night was one of celebration, complete with accolades, live performances, and rousing applause. But beyond the spectacle, the spotlight rightly shone on the artists themselves, including members of the hearing-impaired community—a poignant reminder that creativity speaks in every language. “UOB POY has been held in Malaysia for 15 years, and every year we witness greater talent and diversity,” said Ng Wei Wei, CEO of UOB Malaysia, during her welcoming speech. “I’m especially touched that this year’s submissions included entries from the hearing-impaired community, with one of them honoured as a winner tonight. This reinforces what we have always believed: art knows no boundaries and diversity only deepens its impact.”
Each year, a new artistic star rises above the rest. This year’s UOB POY title went to Nik Mohd Shazmie Bin Nik Shairozi for his evocative piece, Rumah Kita (Our Home). The artist took home the grand prize of RM100,000, marking a remarkable return to the stage a decade after winning the Gold Award, Established Category in 2015. His acrylic painting reflects Malaysian unity through the metaphor of an imperfect, spiky clay durian. “Like the durian—tough on the outside, sweet on the inside—our path to unity is not always smooth, but it is resilient and full of life,” Shairozi. “The cracks and raw textures speak to the challenges we face, while also highlighting the strength and spirit that drive our progress.”
Following his first Gold Award win, Shairozi’s works have since graced exhibitions across Asia. His winning piece will go on to represent Malaysia in the upcoming 2025 UOB Southeast Asian POY regional competition, taking place in Singapore. There, he will compete against fellow national winners for a cash prize of S$13,000 and a chance to earn a UOB-sponsored overseas residency programme.
Meanwhile, in the Emerging Artist Category, Putra Aqmal Danish Bin Mohd Zuraimi took home the title of Most Promising Artist of the Year with his artwork, I Love You, Bearbear. The piece lays bare the hardships of homelessness and the deep void of human connection that defines such realities. Using cardboard as his canvas, he repurposes an overlooked medium into an emphatic portrayal of survival and dignity.
Intan Rafiza, chief judge of this year’s UOB POY Malaysia, said: “It has been a privilege to witness the incredible talent showcased in this year’s UOB POY competition. Each piece told a story that is rich with emotion and creativity. Malaysia’s art scene is full of passionate and talented individuals, and I’m excited to see how they continue to grow.”
Lead image: Ms Ng Wei Wei, CEO, UOB Malaysia (middle); Ms Intan Rafiza, Head Judge of 15th UOB POY (far right); and Mr Kow Leong Kiang, Judge of 15th UOB POY (far left); together with the winners from the Established and Emerging categories.
