The National Art Gallery is currently the vibrant meeting point of four Southeast Asian nations as it unveils “Isle To Isle: A Reflection of BIMP-EAGA Through Contemporary Art.” This thought-provoking exhibition showcases 12 dynamic artworks by artists from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, shining a creative spotlight on the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area).
Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) through the National Visual Arts Development Board (LPSVN), this exhibition is part of Malaysia’s commitment to cultural diplomacy under MOTAC’s Strategic Plan 2021–2025 and ties into Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship this year.
The exhibition was officiated by YBhg. Dato’ Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot, Secretary-General of MOTAC, and attended by curators, artists, and cultural representatives from across the region. It opens to the public on 18 July 2025 at Gallery 3A, National Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur.
A Tapestry of Regional Identity
The exhibition highlights artistic reflections on key themes such as social connection, economic resilience, environmental consciousness, indigenous knowledge, and cultural identity. These works represent the diverse but interconnected lives of people across BIMP-EAGA, from the dense rainforests of Kalimantan to the coastal communities of Sabah and Palawan.
Artworks span various mediums including painting, mixed media, photography, videography, audio installations, and site-specific art, offering immersive interpretations of island life and regional identity.
A Cross-Border Collaboration of Artists
Malaysian artists featured include Josrie Haral, Muslim Mattajim, and Dr. Mohamad Faizuan Mat, while Brunei is represented by Umi Zaty Bazillah and Asilah Maziyah. The Philippines presents a robust lineup including Chester Mato, Romy Jones Mata, Leonard B. Ansiong, Brendale Taj Hassan Tadeo, and Alynnah Macia. From Indonesia, the exhibition showcases the works of Audro Chrustofel Rompas, along with collectives Susur Galur and Muara Suara.
The curatorial team, with representatives from each country, has played an essential role in shaping the narrative of the exhibition, embracing the R.I.S.E. values (Resilience, Inclusivity, Sustainability, Economic Competitiveness) outlined in the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025.
Notably, the exhibition also features a special piece from the National Visual Art Collection by acclaimed Malaysian artist Yee I-Lann, adding a historic perspective to the contemporary showcase.
This regional showcase is more than just an art exhibition; it’s a dialogue between islands, a shared canvas where differences are celebrated and common ground is rediscovered. The public is encouraged to visit and experience the artistic pulse of the BIMP-EAGA region in one powerful space.
Isle to Isle is open to the public from 18 July 2025 at Gallery 3A, National Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur. For more info, follow @nationalartgallerymy or visit www.artgallery.gov.my