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UNIQLO's latest UTme! collection, which celebrates local Malaysian flavours like nasi lemak, roti bakar, polo bun, and ais kacang, has sparked conversation in the local creative community
Fans could customise T-shirts and tote bags with designs featuring nine exclusive local dishes, or choose from pre-printed pieces available at selected stores.
The collection aims to capture the fun, comforting, and nostalgic spirit of Malaysia's kopitiam culture.
However, some artists have raised concerns that the designs may have been generated using AI tools, prompting debate online
With T-shirts and tote bags priced between RM59.90 and RM79.90, many felt that a company of this size could easily have commissioned local artists to create the designs if it genuinely aimed to celebrate Malaysian culture.
In response, UNIQLO told SAYS that they are aware of the feedback and are taking it seriously
"We have taken note of the feedback shared by members of the creative community and are aware of the comments regarding our recent UTme! designs," the brand said.
"UNIQLO has always valued creativity and collaboration. We take all feedback seriously and are carefully looking into this matter internally together with our partners. We appreciate your understanding as we look into this matter."
UNIQLO's UTme! collection has long embraced collaborations, working with both international and local artists to create unique graphic tees
In Malaysia, the brand has released collections featuring popular names like Monchhichi, Star Wars, Minecraft, Disney's Mickey Mouse, and Peanuts.
Last year, it teamed up with local design studio Bunga dan Bintang, led by Malaysian illustrator Kirin Sharom, whose hand-drawn creations highlighted local cuisine and cultural icons through T-shirts and tote bags.
Globally, UT collections have included contributions from Japanese illustrator Yu Nagaba, as well as iconic pop artists such as Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
