MALAYSIAN street artist and illustrator Cloakwork was shocked to discover that his public murals at old bus stops were removed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) without prior notice.
The locally-celebrated artist who preferred to be refered by his handle ‘Cloakwork,’ known for his vibrant and thought-provoking street art, expressed deep disappointment, questioning why authorities continue to erase public artwork instead of recognising its cultural and communal value to the community and Malayian citizens alike.
While enjoying a Tuesday afternoon walk around the city, Cloakwork discovered that his artwork had been painted over by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
Taking to Instagram, the Kuala Lumpur-based artist voiced his frustration, tagging the city council in a post soon after the discovery of his artwork’s removal at March 11, 1pm.
“@dewanbandarayakualalumpur, why did you remove my art?
“Instead of spending taxpayers’ money to cover my harmless art, why not try to fix the potholes on the road?” He further questioned the city council’s priorities.
One of two murals by Cloakwork removed via @cloakwork – Instagram
Cloakwork’s murals were painted on old bus stops that once served as small community hubs, where vendors sold drinks and snacks to bus passengers and taxi drivers.
“Today, these mini shops have disappeared, and the bus stops have fallen into neglect.
“One day, as I passed by one of these stops, I thought to myself: why not use my skills to give them a fresh, vibrant makeover and brighten up the area?” Cloakwork shared.
However, rather than allowing the public to enjoy the revitalised spaces, the city council opted to remove his work—an action the artist finds discouraging.
“Honestly, it makes me feel sad, and I can’t understand why they always choose to remove my artwork once I’ve painted something on a wall that’s been abandoned for over five years,”
“I’ve always wanted to give back to the community by painting walls with vibrant colors, adding a bit of “life” to them as It’s my way of sparking some fun and creativity in an otherwise mundane city,” he told Sinar Daily.
Malaysia remains conservative when it comes to street art, often associating it with vandalism rather than creativity.
According to Cloakwork, while street artists are eager to contribute to the city’s identity, they are given few opportunities to do so legally.
Previously, Pasar Seni’s riverbank was a legal space for street art, but after its redevelopment into the “River of Life,” options for artists have dwindled.
“Now, the only remaining ‘legal’ space is at the riverbank near Damai-Jelatek, which is hidden, difficult to access, and in a rather dirty condition,” he stated.
Cloakwork strongly believes that street art plays an essential role in shaping a city’s visual and cultural identity.
One of two murals by Cloakwork removed via @cloakwork – Instagram
“I believe street art can be a powerful tool for enhancing urban spaces and contributing to a city’s visual and cultural identity
“By transforming ordinary walls and public areas into canvases, street art brings colour, life, and expression to otherwise overlooked spaces,” he shared.
His work often incorporates humour and storytelling that reflect Malaysia’s contemporary and heritage-rich culture.
“I also believe that it has the power to transform dull, neglected areas into vibrant, eye-catching spaces.
“By adding colour and creativity to walls, abandoned buildings, and public spaces, street art makes the city visually engaging and inviting for locals and visitors alike,” he added.
In response to the removal of his artwork, Cloakwork positively hopes for greater cooperation between artists and city authorities.
Instead of constantly removing murals, he believes the city council should work with local creatives to enhance public spaces.
“DBKL should definitely collaborate with local artists to preserve and create murals, but unfortunately, this is still far from being realised,” he said.
Despite the setbacks, Cloakwork refuses to let this dampen his spirit.
His mission remains unchanged and that is to bring creativity and joy to public spaces through the expression of his vibrant and meaningful art.
“I’ve always been a giver, and I will continue creating public art for the community and the people.
“No matter what happens, I won’t let these incidents break my spirit since as long as there’s a wall, there’s a will,” he said.
For more of Cloakwork’s work and past projects, visit www.iamcloakwork.com.
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