CIMB Artober returns this week as Malaysia’s largest annual art exhibition, transforming the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) into a national stage for culture, creativity, and community impact from 26–28 September 2025. This year’s edition deepens its technology layer through a collaboration with Arteesan, the creator platform for artists, which is bringing interactive, immersive digital and augmented-reality (AR) experiences to galleries and visitors across the show. 

Over the last five years, CIMB Artober has generated more than RM20 million in sales and supported 100+ Malaysian artists, reflecting its role as a growth engine for the country’s creative economy. Toni, CIMB Group Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, noted that the festival “has proven its ability to open avenues for young talent, entrepreneurs and community development,” and welcomed its recognition as an official programme of the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting 2025, placing Malaysian artists on a wider regional agenda. 

CIMB regional head of group corporate events En. Ismail Ani Arope emphasized that Artober is designed to be more than an exhibition—it’s an economic platform where artists can grow their mastery and claim their power confidently. Yayasan Hasanah’s head of arts and public spaces Nini Marini Ramlan underscored the importance of skills transfer and valuing “the hand behind every textile and craft,” aligning heritage preservation with contemporary practice.

This year’s programme includes a rare presentation of unseen works by the late Datuk Ibrahim Hussein, alongside new voices and galleries that reflect the breadth of Malaysia’s creative landscape. Entrepreneurs such as Farah Liyana (Toko) and Tengku Marina Ibrahim (Pink Jambu) credit Artober as a launchpad—accelerating growth, opening market access, and affirming heritage as a catalyst for tomorrow.

Looking ahead, Toni highlighted CIMB’s RM200 million pledge under the Kita Bagi Jadi Komuniti initiative (2026–2030), a long-term commitment to inclusive growth through partnerships across community segments. In parallel, CIMB Artober’s regional ambition is expanding, with interest in collaborations that engage Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Singapore—positioning the festival as a Southeast Asian platform for artists and creative MSMEs.
 
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