“You can’t, however, simply say whatever’s on your mind – there’s a time and place for everything. So my webcomic ‘The Mokumentary’, which is a pun on my name, serves as my alter ego,” the 37-year-old tells FMT.
The comic has certainly struck a chord with Malaysians, racking up over 12,500 followers on Instagram since its inception last year.
“I never thought people would be interested in my comics. It started out as a hobby but, after a few of them went viral, I realised I should do it more regularly,” he says.
“People seemed to like its dark humour.”
For the most part, Mok, a copywriter who studied design and advertising, considers himself a writer who draws.
“I don’t think I’m the best artist, but it’s enough to communicate my stories and ideas,” he admits, explaining that he focuses more on words and punchlines.
As a child, Mok loved reading the comics page in the newspapers. “I also liked reading ‘Doraemon’ and ‘Crayon Shin-chan’ comic books and, like most kids, I loved watching cartoons,” he says.
He is a big fan of Instagram comic artist Nathan W Pyle, whose webcomic “Strange Planet” – about a bunch of alien beings whose experiences bizarrely and humorously reflect humankind – has catapulted him to international stardom.
“I love his sarcastic and dry humour. As humans, a lot of what we say and do is ironic and strange – we contradict ourselves all the time.
“I try to portray this in my art. It is a reflection of our true selves, and the funnier it is, the more accurate it is.”
Mok also likes studying how comedy works, saying it is akin to magic. “You misdirect the audience. They’re expecting a certain thing, only to be served another.”
Mok acknowledges he is motivated by comments from his followers, especially when they tag their friends believing the comics will inspire them in some way.
“That’s when I realised comics are not just entertainment. They can impact people’s lives in positive ways,” he reflects.
“I’ve received messages from people who really appreciate my comics, and I truly value their support. It’s nice to be able to connect to people by doing something I love.”
But it’s not all sugar and spice – he has also received threatening private messages with regard to content that touches on politics.
“I believe comics can function as a voice for the people, especially when it comes to expressing certain sentiments that people feel strongly about.
“There’s power in humour and satire, as it can take the edge off serious issues and yet get the message across,” he points out.
That said, he prefers creating “slice-of-life” comics instead of those that focus on current affairs as he doesn’t want to ruffle feathers.
“To be honest, I’m still evolving in terms of finding my identity as a comic artist.”
Going forward, Mok hopes to be more consistent in his output, and is also considering releasing his comics in book form.
“I also want to learn to draw more quickly, as I have more ideas than time,” he laughs.
For those who are thinking of becoming comic artists, Mok advises them to just get started.
“Even if there is a lot of average work, there will eventually be one that is better than average,” he says.
“It’s better to be consistent, as good work comes from momentum; it won’t occur overnight.”
He also believes it is important to draw on one’s strengths, no pun intended. “At the same time, continue to learn and improve from others,” he adds.
Ultimately, Mok hopes to inspire positive change in Malaysia through his work.
“I know it sounds idealistic, but I hope we can see and celebrate our similarities as Malaysians. We are more alike than we think, with lots of little things that tie us together.”
