Designs. Politics. Artifacts.
Graphic design plays a key – although often overlooked – role in the history of Malaysia. There is a need for vigorous documentation, archiving and analysis of these artifacts through this linkage in the reading of Malaysia’s complex history to better surface the undercurrents of contemporary social, political and cultural contests and negotiations in the country. This project systematically unearths, identifies and locates a collection of artifacts and design works during the periods of colonialism, occupation, emergency and independence.
Malaysia Design Archive is also a space for designers to explore, challenge and question our design history.
Recently Added Artifacts
- Newspaper: Bintang Pranakan
- Newspaper: Sekola Melayu
- Newspaper: Bintang Timor
- Comic: Buaya Mati Dua Kali
- Book Cover: Kemanisan Bersuami Isteri
Design Focus
Writings and Essays
- The History and Design Chronology of Jalur Gemilang
- The Old Wooden Church by Anil Netto
- Yellow is the colour of…by Jac sm Kee
- Whither Malaysian History? Or, Why History Matters by Rachel Leow
- The forgotten women warriors of the Malayan Communist Party by Adrianna Tan
- An Influence of Colonial Architecture to Building Styles and Motifs in Colonial Cities in Malaya
- Unravelling the story of Graphic Design in Malaysia
