BIMP-EAGA, or the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area, is a cooperation initiative established in 1994 to foster development within these nations.
The exhibition explores the regional identity and social realities of the four countries, conveyed through various mediums including mixed media, installations, paintings, photography, audio, and videography.
The areas covered are Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan in Malaysia; the entire sultanate of Brunei; the Kalimantan strip in Indonesia; and the southern Philippines, which includes Mindanao and Palawan.
Malaysian artists featured include Josrie Haral, Muslim Mattajim and Mohamad Faizuan Mat, while Brunei is represented by Umi Zaty Bazillah Zakaria and Asilah Maziyah Mohamad Yussof.
Chester M Mato, Romy Jones Mata, Leonard B Ansiong, Brendale Taj Hassan Tadeo and Alnynnah Macla represent the Philippines, while Indonesian artist Audro Chrustofel Rompas, along with two art collectives – Susur Galur and Muara Suara from Pontianak and Samarinda, respectively – represent Indonesia.
In his opening speech on Thursday, tourism, arts and culture ministry secretary-general Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said the exhibition reflects the deep-rooted cultural ties shared by the nations.
“The close ties that have existed for thousands of years among these countries must continue to be strengthened through cultural exploration, particularly through visual arts, heritage, and the exchange of ideas,” he said.
“Through this effort, we hope to foster not just trade cooperation but also appreciation of local wisdom, philosophy and culture, while elevating local art to greater heights.”
Shahruddin noted that such regional initiatives have the potential to attract visitors from neighbouring countries, in line with our country’s aspirations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
‘KePulauan: Refleksi BIMP-EAGA Melalui Seni Kontemporari’
Where:
National Art Gallery,
2 Jalan Temerloh,
Off Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur
When: Until May 31, 2026
For more information, visit the National Art Gallery website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.