KL, Terengganu artists selected for Khazanah associate artist residency 2025 in London

KUALA LUMPUR: Khazanah Nasional Bhd has announced the selection of two emerging Malaysian artists as the 2025 recipients of the Khazanah Associate Artist Residency Programme (KAAR) at Acme Studios, London, for a 12-week programme in September.

The selected participants for KAAR 2025 are Lee Mok Yee, a multidisciplinary artist based in Kuala Lumpur and Amar Shahid Salehudin from Terengganu.

Lee, 37, who was selected after applying for the third time, said he was excited to be chosen from among 47 applicants, and is now planning how best to utilise the three-month programme in London.

“I think it is a great opportunity for me to engage with the communities in London, and also to access larger and international platforms.

“When I return to Malaysia, I hope to share my experience and engage in more discussions with fellow artists – to reflect on my journey and explore potential collaborations,” he said after the KAAR 2025 Award Ceremony here Tuesday (July 29).

Meanwhile, Amar Shahid, 39, said he was looking forward to possible collaborations or learning opportunities at major London museums, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, which has a very good photography department, and a focus on conservation, areas that align with his current exploration of batik and practical photography.

“I feel like it is the right time for me to start exploring outside, to expand my practice, learn more, and grow further,” he said.

KAAR, alongside the Khazanah Wolfson Press Fellowship (KWPF) and the Khazanah Sustainability Leadership pilot programme, aims to equip Malaysian talents with the knowledge, skills and networks to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy. 

It aligns with Khazanah’s Advancing Malaysia strategy and the Malaysia Investment Strategy framework – A Nation That Creates – which drives socio-economic outcomes to uplift communities, build capacity, and strengthen national resilience.

Khazanah managing director Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir said the KAAR programme allow the participants to connect with a wide network in London while developing their artistic work.

“Being there, you will learn a great deal and grow as an artist. What we find exciting is that when you return and continue to grow, the entire community grows with you.

“And I believe that is the whole purpose of this initiative, to make the industry and its artists more vibrant, more thoughtful, and more daring,” he said.

During their time at Acme’s Fire Station Residency, Khazanah said the artists will participate in mentorship sessions, workshops and peer collaborations, while engaging with the broader London art scene. 

“Their residency also coincides with Frieze Week, offering critical exposure to the global arts community. 

“Upon returning, both recipients will contribute to the local art ecosystem through mentorship, exhibitions, and public programmes -including Tea Talk sessions and collaborations with Galeri Khazanah,” it said in a statement. – Bernama