We recently took part in KL Zine Etc, a brand new event that marks a significant milestone for Malaysia’s zine culture. This was the organizers’ very first attempt at putting together a zine-focused gathering—and it turned out to be the first-ever event in Malaysia that placed zines at the heart of its mission.
The event's theme, as stated in their Instagram bio, is distilled into three clear words: zine, DIY, and community. These words perfectly reflect what the event stands for—a celebration of self-publishing and the idea that no voice is too small. Whether your work is personal, political, poetic, or peculiar, this event showed that there’s space and support for you.
A Diverse Zine Landscape
From poetic reflections and personal diaries to comics and research-driven pieces, the diversity of content on display was refreshing. It wasn’t just a zine fair—it was an open ecosystem where creators and readers could meet, talk, and bond over printed pages.
One of the standout sections was the "Gantung Zine" display—“gantung” meaning “hanging” in Malay. Zines from all over the region were hung on structures and draped over chairs throughout the venue. This simple yet impactful gesture encouraged people to casually pick up and read zines, reinforcing the spirit of accessible publishing and organic discovery.
There was also a zine contest, where visitors voted for their favorite zine—a smart way to stir up interest and gain insights into what resonates within the community. It was great to see such an interactive and participatory approach to appreciation.
The Power of the Mic and Marketplace
Another beautiful moment was the open mic session—an open floor for anyone who felt like sharing their stories, poems, or thoughts. There was no stage, no hierarchy—just a circle of people and a willingness to listen. The intimacy of this format blurred the line between creator and audience, unlike a typical seminar where a stage separates the two.
Entry to the event was RM10, with each visitor receiving a RM5 voucher to spend inside. This small incentive actually had a big impact—it helped boost circulation and made purchases feel encouraged rather than transactional.
Although the event was modest in size, with around 30+ booths, every table had something unique to offer. We had zine makers from Wuhan, Hong Kong, Bali, and many other places. The quality and thoughtfulness of the printed works were truly inspiring.
Looking Forward
While there’s definitely room for improvement (as with any first event), what stood out the most was the genuine passionfrom the organizing team. That sincerity was felt by everyone—creators and visitors alike. And that, to us, is the mark of a successful event.
We’re grateful to have been part of this milestone and look forward to seeing KL Zine Etc grow into a long-standing space for zine culture in Southeast Asia. If you’ve ever thought about making a zine, we can safely say: this community is ready for you.