The MR D.I.Y. 2026 Art Competition has announced its grand prize winners, spotlighting a compelling reinterpretation of this year’s theme, “Strength & Resilience.” Rather than portraying strength through traditional symbols of power or force, many of the winning and shortlisted artworks offered a more nuanced perspective, highlighting adaptability, emotional endurance, balance, and perseverance as true markers of resilience in today’s world.
Organised nationwide as part of MR D.I.Y.’s ongoing commitment to nurturing local arts and culture, the competition continues to serve as a creative platform for artists of all ages to express personal stories and reflections rooted in Malaysian identity. This year’s entries captured how individuals and communities navigate challenges while remaining grounded, connected, and forward-looking, reflecting the diversity and spirit of resilience within society.
According to MR D.I.Y. Chief Executive Officer Adrian Ong, the submissions stood out for their emotional depth and thoughtful interpretations, demonstrating that resilience is often quiet rather than dramatic. He noted that strength can be found in everyday life—within families, personal identity, and the determination to move forward despite uncertainty—reinforcing the competition’s role in amplifying authentic Malaysian voices through art.
The grand prize winners of the MR D.I.Y. 2026 Art Competition are:
Public Category Grand Prize Winner
Artist: Ng Chit Keong
Artwork: Bayang dan Arah – Shadow and Direction
Student Category Grand Prize Winner
Artist: Brenda Goh Xsue Thoong
Artwork: Our Birthday
Established Artists Category Grand Prize Winner
Artist: Chang Yoong Chia
Artwork: Weight of a Feather
Among the standout works, a mechanical butterfly symbolised the fusion of cultural heritage and modern influences, illustrating how identity evolves through balance and adaptability rather than conflict. Another piece, inspired by childhood memories titled Our Birthday, explored emotional resilience through family bonds and the lasting impact of shared experiences. A third artwork depicted contrasting symbols such as an eagle and a bat, representing opposing perspectives that ultimately coexist in harmony, reflecting resilience as a journey of self-discovery.
This year’s competition attracted more than 900 submissions from participants aged between 8 and 61, with entries arriving from across Malaysia, including Sabah. The top winners from each category will go on to represent the country at the regional MR D.I.Y. Art Competition in Indonesia later this year, further expanding the platform for Malaysian creative talent on an international stage.
The judging panel featured respected figures from the art community alongside MR D.I.Y. leadership, ensuring a diverse and balanced evaluation of the works. Selected winning artworks are currently on display at Galeri 2, Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, offering the public an opportunity to experience the creativity and narratives behind each piece from 26 June to 3 July 2026.
Since its inception in 2022, the MR D.I.Y. Art Competition has continued to strengthen its mission of fostering a vibrant and inclusive creative ecosystem. Through initiatives like this, MR D.I.Y. and Yayasan MR D.I.Y. reaffirm their commitment to supporting local artists and using art as a powerful medium to celebrate everyday stories, strengthen community ties, and inspire collective resilience across Malaysia.
For more information, visit MR D.I.Y. Malaysia’s website or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, XiaoHongShu, X and YouTube.
