UTAR students showcase Malaysian creativity and cultural heritage on the global stage

In a landmark achievement that underscores the university’s creative distinction, seven exceptional students from UTAR were selected to represent Malaysia at the prestigious Graduation Design International Exchange Exhibition. This event was part of the larger “Lancang Mekong Boundless 2025” showcase, hosted by Yunnan University of Finance and Economics (YUFE) in Kunming, China. Held from 16 to 21 May 2025, the exhibition was paired with the thematic showcase Ink Impressions of Yunnan Life and brought together over 350 works from China, Thailand, and Malaysia in a celebration of cross-cultural artistry and innovation.

The selected students, namely Jacquelin Lay Jielin, Neo Kai Xian, Lim Foong Yi, Jalexa Loke Qi Yan, Randy Tan Jian Xun, Janice Yeep and Teng Por Xuen, presented final year projects that reflected a remarkable blend of creative depth, cultural resonance and professional craftsmanship. Their submissions, guided by dedicated supervisors from the Faculty of Creative Industries, ranged from branding and visual identity to editorial and publication design, each telling a distinctive story of personal exploration and societal relevance.

Jacquelin Lay’s project centred on rebranding a traditional Hakka food label. As a designer with cultural roots in the Hakka community, she saw the exhibition as a way to honour her heritage. “It’s a big opportunity to let more people around the world learn about Hakka culture, which is very important to me,” she said. Her thoughtful design merged nostalgia with contemporary flair, offering a new voice to cultural continuity.

Randy Tan’s work, LuxVerse, reimagined a stationery brand using an energetic bear mascot, striking a chord with audiences for its originality and vibrancy. His participation in the exhibition directly contributed to his professional journey, as he was offered freelance design opportunities and subsequently secured full time employment with Honor, where he had previously interned.

Janice Yeep’s rebranding of Nam Yick Food Trading, a hometown mooncake brand from Kluang, Johor, demonstrated the power of design to inspire real-world change. Her work caught the attention of the company, leading to a collaboration involving social media engagement and website redesign. The success of this project affirmed the practical value of design grounded in authenticity and innovation.

Meanwhile, Teng’s magazine, Ugly Duckling, emerged from deeply personal experiences, serving as an expressive platform for self-acceptance and creative liberation. “This magazine is deeply personal to me; it came from a dark place,” he explained. The publication later garnered a Silver Award in the 2024 Indigo Design Awards, reflecting the resonance of his narrative with a broader audience.

Neo’s rebranding of Richman Coffee Roastery captured attention for its warm tones and inviting aesthetic. “Richman is on a mission to make high-quality coffee affordable for everyone. I included a smiley face in the logo to reflect their friendly and welcoming vibe,” he explained. His colour choices were carefully selected to evoke warmth and familiarity, drawing connections between the brand’s purpose and its visual identity.

Lim’s project for Candle Club introduced a serene branding concept that fused symbols of strength and calm. “The bear, a representation of strength, combined with a candle’s dancing light, symbolises protection, peace and knowledge. The use of blue and purple evokes a calm, balanced atmosphere,” she described. Her design was praised for its conceptual clarity and emotional depth, creating a brand image that was both gentle and enduring.

This international platform not only elevated the portfolios of UTAR students but also provided exposure to critical appreciation and industry dialogue. Organised with the collaboration of leading cultural and educational institutions in Yunnan, the event was a cornerstone of artistic exchange, talent development and educational excellence. The showcase received media attention across China, further enhancing UTAR’s profile as a centre for creative education and global engagement.

This achievement reflects UTAR’s ongoing commitment to nurturing graduates who are globally competent, culturally attuned and professionally equipped. By encouraging participation in platforms such as the YUFE exhibition, the University empowers students to transform academic insights into meaningful contributions to society.